Greetings Archons,

In 2008, I felt I had the experience, passion and energy to lead this great fraternity at the Grand level. As you may recall from Archon Michael Jones' Memorial address in Denver, Archon Jones exhorted the Fraternity stating, “The Bush is Still Burning." In 2008, I sought the office of Grand Sire Archon-Elect because I desired for the Boulé to assist young Black males. To sustain the rich traditions and legacies of our Fraternity, I thought it was necessary that we look at inducting younger Archons. To further the history of this fraternity, I thought we should create a great inter-fraternal network so that we can carry out the missions of the Boulé. These were my passions in 2008, which a very large number of Archons accepted and supported. Fortunately, I have not lost that passion, and "The Bush is Still Burning" within me. Therefore, after much consideration, I have decided to seek the office of Grand Sire Archon-Elect at the 2010 Grand Boulé in Las Vegas.

Not only is my “bush still burning”, but I am now serving the Fraternity in greater areas than ever before. I want to thank Grand Sire Archon Harris for the opportunity to serve as his Executive Assistant during his administration. As the Executive Assistant to Grand Sire Harris, I have continued to work with the Executive Committee in various capacities. I am serving as a member of the Grand Strategic Planning Committee in assisting with implementation of the Strategic Plan by member boulés. I am working to track and assess the number of younger Archons initiated into member boulés and identify opportunities for growth and expansion. Finally, I am assisting the Fraternity and the Boulé Foundation in developing a strategic plan that enhances the viability of effectiveness of both entities.

While I understand the current economic concerns, we must continue to support our Boulé Foundation. I suspect that most of us, if not all Archons have felt the financial burdens of our economy. Therefore, we must look for new and innovative ways to grow the Foundation’s fund. Many financial analysts suggest that now is the time to “buy” into the market. Obviously, we cannot take advantage of the hopeful upswing if there are no funds available to make purchases. I am also working with other Archons to initiate new concepts for increasing income for the Fraternity and the Boulé Foundations.

I am asking for your support as I pursue the office of Grand Sire Archon-Elect in Las Vegas in 2010. I look forward to seeing you in Las Vegas.

Fraternally yours,

Archon James E. Payne