Once a year at Convention we take the opportunity to conduct business.  A necessary element of our gathering, it gives members a chance to provide input on our Legislatiave Core Principles.  And perhaps the most important activity is the swearing in of new members to the League Board of Trustees.  The six new board members are Pat Capek, Councilwoman from Cedar Springs; John Davidson, Commissioner, Bay City; David Lossing, Mayor, Linden; Gary McDowell, Mayor, Adrian; Larry Nielsen, Manager, Paw Paw; and, Susan Rowe, Councilwoman, Wayne.  Finally, it also gave our outgoing President, Robin Beltramini of Troy the opportunity to discuss the year in review.  And despite the continuing challenges facing us, I can proudly say that the League continues to lead the way with strong legislative advocacy and innovative educational program.  Together, we'll move forward.  Better Communities, Better Michigan.