Chapter News “… Just Live Life.”
by Jacqueline Belleau, ΤΒΣ/Eta Alpha Syracuse University
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here are certain moments that can change your outlook on life and inspire you. The sisters of the Eta Alpha Chapter of Tau Beta Sigma and the brothers of the Eta Phi Chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi were honored with the opportunity to spend a short, yet amazing weekend with Wava Banes Henry and her husband Reese Henry in Syracuse, NY this past March. Eta Alpha wanted to learn more about our sorority’s history, so we fundraised and planned a weekend dedicated to Tau Beta Sigma and the wonderful woman who created this organization. When the thought of inviting Wava up to the Northeast came to fruition, we were honestly quite nervous about meeting the remarkable woman whose vision is the reason why we are all able to serve the bands together today. From the moment the sisterhood was introduced to Wava, we knew this experience was one that would always stay in our memories. She and Reese immediately warmed our hearts with their kindness and sincere interest in our chapter and personal lives. One thing we were not expecting was Wava’s great sense of humor and her gift for storytelling! She kept us laughing all weekend with her humorous and courageous stories. Among the activities that weekend was a Sisterhood versus Membership Candidates football game honorably named the “Wava Bowl.” Also on the agenda were a recital, dinner, an S.U. basketball game, and a ritual. But, the favorite event for many sisters was an event called “History Day.” The sisters spent an afternoon showing Wava how Eta Alpha serves the bands while enjoying the positive influences of a close fellowship. After this presentation, we participated in a conversation with Wava about topics such as the sorority’s founding, women’s rights, and the importance of cherishing every moment with which we are blessed. As the weekend came to a close, the sisters were energized and inspired by experiencing first-hand the capabilities of the “power of one.” Wava Banes Henry is responsible for initiating this opportunity for all band-women to have an outlet to enjoy their love of music. Members of Tau Beta Sigma and Kappa Kappa Psi at Syracuse all come from various backgrounds. What we learned from and observed about Wava was her selflessness,
28—The PODIUM, Spring 2003
courage, passion, and optimism which convey a message that transcends academic major, gender, and race. She encouraged us to believe that even though it may seem that the odds are against you, all it takes is desire and action to succeed in what you have chosen. But, perhaps the most important lesson many of us learned from that unique and inspiring weekend with Wava was, “Whatever happens, just live life.”
Farewell to a Red Raider by ΚΚΨ/Alpha Omicron & ΤΒΣ/Beta Texas Tech University
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he fall 2002 semester marked the end of an era at Texas Tech University. Mr. James Keith Bearden, distinguished director of the Goin’ Band from Raiderland and Associate Director of Bands for the last 23 years, will be retiring in May 2003. His efforts in the marching band field have gained him and the Goin’ Band local, regional, national and international fame and recognition. His continuing efforts in the Lubbock community, the great state of Texas and all around the country will always be remembered. Mr. Bearden was initiated into the Alpha Omicron Chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi in May of 1966. Prior to his appointment at Texas Tech, Mr. Bearden taught seven years in the Texas public school system where his marching, concert and jazz bands consistently received superior ratings. In 1980, he was hired by then Goin’ Band director Dean Killion to be Assistant Director of Bands and took over the Goin’ Band in 1981 after Mr. Killion’s retirement. Mr. Bearden continued the great history and success of the Goin’ Band and further increased its national prominence. Under his efforts, the marching band earned its highest honor in 1999, the Sudler Intercollegiate Marching Band Trophy. In April of 2001, Mr. Bearden was awarded Kappa Kappa Psi’s highest national award – The Distinguished Service to Music Medal under the area of marching band. He is a past Southwest District
