Brothers of the Southwestern Province, Welcome to our new home! The new website is still under construction; therefore, I indulge your patience while we add our new features. One of our goals this year is to become more aware of our environment by "going green." We shall began using less paper and rely more on electronics as our means of communication. We shall start encouraging most of our chapters to get certified online instead of mailing a three-ring binder. The less paper used will result in less money spent, and better efficiency for our province.

First, I want to thank the SWP Executive Team for making the Southwestern Province one of the best in Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. Parker, "Doc", Ryan, Esmond, and Hightower have worked very hard this summer for the start of the 2009-10 fraternal year. Thanks for your support!

Two chapters were approved for chartering this summer---Spring-The Woodlands-Huntsville (TX) and Mansfield-Cedar Hill (TX) Alumni chapters. Congratulations to both of these chapters. Our province is growing; however, we are losing more chapters to inactivity and suspensions. Another goal is to grow chapters through chapter reclamation. The SWP currently has approximately 30 inactive chapters. Our goal is to reenergize these chapters by having them make a difference in their communities and within Kappa Alpha Psi.

The 79th Grand Chapter is a few days away. Approximately 200 brothers from the Southwestern Province will attend the meeting. I look forward to witnessing our own Dr. Chuck Carr Brown and Willie H. Coleman Jr. receive their Elder Watson Diggs awards. Congratulations again Chuck and Willie!!!

The 31st C. Rodger Wilson Leadership Conference is scheduled for September 17-19, 2009 at Mississippi Valley State University. Brothers, if you have not done so, now is the time to register! I will make an announcement on the adjusted registration deadlines shortly. The brothers of Greenville and Zeta Zeta chapters have been working hard all summer preparing for your arrival. Hopefully, you will join me in the Delta for some good food and fun!

Last, a new chapter certification period will begin on August 1, 2009 and end on October 31, 2009. Chapters should not wait until the last minute to complete their chapter certification packet. I strongly encourage chapters to submit their certification early. Failure to complete the packet on time will result in a fine and sanctions placed on the chapter. The province cannot move in a "Good To Great" direction if any chapters are stuck in a 20th Century mindset. We can and shall do better! I am excited about the things we shall achieve this year. Thanks for your support! One Kappa-Creating Inspiration!

Yours In The Bond,

Ron Julun