Convention Wrap-up
It was quite hot and humid down in Atlanta this summer, but that's just the end result of so many Alphadelts in one place!  Many thanks to Mike Blackstock, Convention Steward, for all of his hard work and efforts in pulling off an extremely successful convention in the Jewel of the South!  There was a record turnout of alumni, not to mention the addition of a new Chapter, Alpha Delta, in the Philadelphia region.  To top it off, we also had members from our newest colony in LaGrange, Georgia.  To learn more about this incredible week, talk to your representatives who were in attendance; no picture or video can every truly capture the feeling of this week.

The First Ever ADG Fall Retreat is Set
For the first time in our history, Alpha Delta Gamma is holding its first annual retreat just outside of Louisville, KY.  There was definitely a gap between the summer convention and spring conference.  Well, that brotherly void in the Fall is now filled with a new and exciting opportunity.  Best of all, the first brother from each chapter is free!  In case you missed Brother Nick Wolfla's presentation, you can download the PowerPoint file here .  You can find the details (and sign-up sheet) here .

Up Next: Beta 2008
I'll bet you thought I was going to say, "See you in Saint Louie," didn't you?  Believe it or not, plans are already in motion for summer 2008 for our 77th Annual Convention in St. Louis, MO!  That's right, these meetings do take some time and planning to get up and running.  Fortunately, co-stewards Derrick Cabrera and Mark Niemeyer are already on the case, tracking down events, working the best rates, and doing whatever they can to ensure that next year's conclave will be a smashing success! 

Congratulations to the Award Winners!
We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all of the chapters and individuals on their awards this year.  A special congratulations goes out to Brother Anthony Smulders, who became only the 9th ever recipient of the Award of Merit, ADG's highest possible honor.  Congratulations, Bro!  For a complete list of this year's award winners, click here .

2009 Convention is Already 'Brewing'
The people have spoken, and they have chosen Milwaukee for the 78th Annual Convention to be held in the summer of 2009!  While one does hope that the location will guarantee cooler weather than Atlanta, we know that the camaraderie and spirit of true brotherhood will reign supreme no matter where we should meet.  The likely steward will be Wayne Palmer-Ball, ADG Historian and long-time manager of the Store.  We're already looking forward to seeing you there in two years!

Brothers,

How was your summer?  I hope everyone enjoyed the time away from school and found ample time to relax for a change.  For those of you already in the workforce, I hope you found the time for a vacation or two.

Whatever the coming months hold for you and yours, I simply ask that you remember ADG.  Let me explain that statement a bit.

We are founded upon the principles of the 5 S's.  Encourage those who are struggling with schoolwork.  Help those who are dismayed to see the benefits of their educational institution.  Seek out those who are lonely and isolated, bring them cheer.  Lend a hand to those who cannot raise their own.  Support and bolster those who are weak in their faith.

We believe that an Alphadelt is the model of a complete, ideal person.  Wear that belief like a badge of honor.  Do not hide it from those who simply cannot grasp the concept.  There are a lot of detractors and critics in the world these days.  Prove them all wrong by your words, your appearance, and your actions.

We believe that 'a brother who is helped by a brother is like a city walled.'  When someone cuts you off on the road; when your neighbor is blaring music that does not suit you; when a retail clerk is having a bad day; when a sibling pushes you too far; when your family and friends seem like they are miles away from where you are in life... Remember ADG.

ADG is more than just a facet of who we are.  It does not define us, but we continue to define ADG through our daily lives.  Be proud, carry this with you always, and be sure to remember ADG beyond the summer of 2007.

Ad Dei Gloriam, brothers.

Fraternally,
Art

Arthur N. Taylor
National Executive Vice President
Alpha Delta Gamma