Of all the information I learned as a candidate, the 5 qualities and 8 factors were not the ones I expect to remember today. Don’t get me wrong, I still know that Mackey seats 14, 123, but for some reason, no matter how complicated the wording seemed at the time, I can still recite the 8’s and 5’s.

· A mutual interest in the art of music, in its performance, and in the aesthetic qualities it can project to others.

The Gamma Rho sisters, along with the brothers of Delta Upsilon, set up professional audition recording in their performance auditorium. For their hard work, Eastern Michigan University won the F. Lee Bowling Trophy. This award is given to the school with the largest number of participants in the National Intercollegiate Band.

· Demonstrated loyalty and dependability to those persons and institutions deserving of it.

Until National Convention, I never noticed how Tau Beta Sigma could support anyone other than women in bands. With our alliance with the Girl Scouts and VH1 Save the Music, local chapters are finding ways to encourage young kids into music.

· Recognition and development of your intellectual potential.

Congratulations to all the individuals and Beta Sigma for the Academic Awards presented last night. I hope next year we make that part of the presentation last a little longer.

· A truthfulness and honesty, which instills a sense of trust in others.

Susan, you always spoke your mind. But the manor in how you present your opinions and ideas often encouraged me to get further information.

· Tolerance, tempered with kindness and a consideration for the needs of others.

Michelle has always asked what do you need, is there anything I can help you with. You were the one I knew I could go to if there was something I needed, no matter what.

· Appreciation for and the maintenance of the highest moral standards

Trudy, your faith and strength helped keep this council grounded.

· Cultivation and maintenance of your emotional poise under all conditions

Lisa, I have no idea how you do it, but you rarely let people see you get visible upset or angry. I wish I could understand you trick, because it has to be more than just counting to ten.

· Cheerfulness at all times and under all circumstances, even in the face of great trial.

Cheryl, no matter what has gotten thrown at you, you bounce back. I will try to remember it really is all small stuff, and not to sweat it so much.

· Generosity of mind, heart and hand.

Beta Sigma, I never expected so much support from you. From listening to my little rants in the lounge, running past thoughts and opinions, or helping with errands at convention you have been there. It means more to me than you will ever know.

· Fortitude and courage to see an ideal, to seize upon it, and follow it whenever it may lead you in Tau Beta Sigma

In preparation for this convention, I have gone through past officer’s information. In amongst this I found the district president’s report from my freshman year. President Heather Webb, a sister of Beta Sigma, gave a last word of advice to the candidates in attendance: You are the future of the district. I was not able to attend the last separate session, and this was the first I heard of it. After talking with alumni, turns out they knew I would serve on district council then, and I wasn’t even active yet.

In all reality, I will be graduating soon and moving back to Chicago. The future is cloudy when it comes to remaining involved with Tau Beta Sigma. I encourage each of you to follow an ideal within the sorority. You never know where it may take you or what you will learn, but it will give some memories along they way.

Respectfully Submitted,

Kelly Twomey

North Central District President