Alpha Omega Oozes Fraternalism

Perhaps the most significant difference between Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity and other organizations is the fraternal aspect of our triangle. Certainly, all three sides of the triangle are essential components, but, of the three sides, only the fraternal aspect is unique to our fraternity. Other organizations and institutions offer venues and arenas that satisfy our Judaism, Judaic heritage, and Judaic principles (particularly, tzedka and tikun olam). Other organizations offer members of our profession venues for professionalism, continuing education, etc. However, only Alpha Omega offers a true fraternal experience with our peers, as well as honoring Judaic principles, while representing the finest professional ideals.
Many of us hear the word “fraternalism” and visualize the frolics of college fraternities. The free dictionary.com defines “fraternalism” as: “showing comradeship; brotherly.” In that sense, Alpha Omega is a fraternity in the finest aspect of the word. Fraters from around the world have developed a family- like bond. Regular attendees at our annual International Conventions develop a bond with fraters that, in many cases, they only see once a year. In some aspects, our conventions are like large, extended family reunions, while welcoming first-time and non- regular attendees into the family party. Our regular convention goers have traditionally become the most devoted to our fraternity. I urge anyone who has attended convention in the past to join us again in San Diego this year. I urge those who either have never attended our International Convention, or have not attended in some time, to join us at the Hyatt Mission Bay in San Diego this year from December 25 to January 1. We have unbelievable special convention room rates of only $149 per night available (can take advantage of this from 3 days prior to 3 days after) for our convention. Convention Marshal Bob Simon and his committee have arranged a outstaning, fun- packed week filled with fraternalism, professionalism (CE credit included in registration), and Judaic values. President-Elect Michael Tenenbaum has planned a community service afternoon for the afternoon of December 25th. Please go online to: www.aosunnydays2010.ao.org for specific details and information, and to register.
Past Regent, member of the Board of Trustees, and Convention Marshall Lynn Gitlin contacted me this past week. Lynn and I were roommates at an AO Convention while in dental school, and have been friends ever since. One of Lynn’s residents was relocating from the San Francisco area to the New York area, and Lynn asked if we would welcome her and make her feel comfortable in relocating. That is exactly what AO is all about - - as we say in Hebrew, “L’dor v’dor” (from generation to generation)! Fraternalism makes one frater outreach on behalf of another, to help out generations that follow us. It is our fraternal responsibility to teach new members what fraternalism is really all about!
When I went to dental school in the 1970’s at Tufts, one of the warmest of the Boston alumni was Murray Miller. Murray is and has always been a fine example of fraternalism, and was recognized at our past convention with our Meritorious Service award. Since I will be visiting our Montreal fraters from Sunday to Tuesday, I called Murray to get his recommendations, and see if he’d like me to say “hi” to anyone special, etc. Murray has always been a leader who led by example, both with his actions and his enthusiasm.
Marty Weinberg recently contacted regarding several fraternal matters. He was very enthusiastic and excited about the membership growth and strengthening that is occurring in his Dallas chapter. Marty is another frater who truly cares about Alpha Omega.
Leaders of one local chapter can be quite helpful to leaders of other chapters by helping us gather a Best Practices manual. I urge local leaders to contact me with ideas regarding: (1) their best events; (2) their most interesting event; (3) their successful membership programs; (4) their most memorable program; (5) their best received event/ program. Please describe these in as much detail as possible, with any other comments, questions, ideas or concepts, and forward to me at: csberkman@aol.com

PLEASE VISIT: www.AmericasToothfairy.org for TOMORROW's SMILE UPDATES & OPPORTUNITIES