What an amazing time these last couple of weeks has been? My Presidential visitation began the evening of Thursday, November 18th, when Richard and I left from JFK International Airport for Zurich. As our flight arrived early Friday morning, we were met at the airport by terrific, enthusiastic and energetic Zurich chapter president Mark Margolin, who transported us to the hotel that he had recommended, prior to going into his office to see some patients in the morning. He gave us a chance to check-in, settle in, and acclimate to the six hour time change, before picking us up later in the afternoon, and showing us around, prior to bringing us to his home, where his wonderful wife Susi fussed and prepared a fabulous Shabbat dinner, where we were joined by several of the members and spouses of the Zurich chapter. This chapter is quite active and philanthropic, despite being a relatively small chapter of 29 fraters. However, when one considers that there are only about 19,000 Jews in all of Switzerland, and not too many Jewish dentists, this is quite an impressive group!
Susi and Mark were wonderful hosts on Saturday, and gave us an opportunity to understand their country, and the needs of their chapter. We had the opportunity to see three distinctly different sets of stained glass windows, and witness the incredible precision that the Swiss are renowned for. The Swiss enjoy a far higher than average income, but also have some of the highest costs anywhere. We really got to know the Margolin’s, and Susi, who years ago worked at Hebrew University Hadassah School of Dental Medicine Founded By Alpha Omega as a dental technicians and instructor, provided superb insight. In addition, because Susi is extremely involved and active with Hadassah as Vice President of the Zurich chapter, she and I discussed the logic of some sort of cooperative efforts between Hadassah and Alpha Omega. I have begun discussions with some of the Hadassah leadership this year, and hopefully, with Mike Tenenbaum’s blessing, will be able to strengthen the ties between our two organizations sometime in 2011.
The Zurich chapter held their Semi-Annual meeting on Sunday at the incredible home of Martin and Nitza Katz. The Katz live in an historic building in Schaffhausen, and hosted this meeting with charm and ease. Nearly 70% of the Zurich chapter attended the meeting, and I had the opportunity to discuss various aspects of Alpha Omega. This was an extremely interesting and involved group, and my extensive conversations with Robert Levy, the Chapter Treasurer; David Reinisch, who has volunteered to be the chapter’s webmaster; Robert’s partner Mirjam, who works for a local television station; Isaac Weinberg, who does an incredible amount of dental outreach(GOHI) including his most recent work in the Amazon; and Debra Hofer, who has relocated to Zurich from Rhode Island; as well as Mark and Susi; and Martin and Nitza; gave me a spectacular insight into how, while there are many different needs throughout the world, we are all joined together by our common thread of the Judaic values of tzedaka and tikun olam.This group was particularly interested in the GOHI concept, and committed $15,000 to Tel Aviv University Dental School, for endodontic microscopes. What an amazing effort from such a small group! Since there are so few Jewish dental students, the one dental student attends all the Zurich chapter’s activity. We had a terrific conversation with Lani Gati, the student, as she so kindly drove us back to Zurich from Schffhausen.
After spending a considerable amount of time with Mark and Susi again on Monday, we boarded our Eurail train early Tuesday morning, for Stausberg, for our two hour train ride. As we disembarked in France, the unbelievable Philipe Levy was there waiting for us. Phillipe was extremely attentive, making sure that everything was okay, and that we did not need anything and understood the French language. He took us all around his beautiful city, and we joined several other members of his chapter, including Thierry Ross, for the dedication of a dental unit at the Jewish retirement home. This was a very significant event and many dignitaries were present representing the local and state government and the press coverage was extensive .GOHI concepts certainly resonated with the members of this chapter, and because my French skills are so poor, it was particularly great that Phillipe stayed by my side as my translator and interpreter. That evening, Thierry and his wife hosted us at their lovely home, and we were able to better understand the needs of this chapter, and much more insight into Alpha Omega France.
Early the next morning (Wednesday), we boarded the mostly “fast” train to Paris to attend the ADF Convention, and have the opportunity to meet with representatives from most of the French chapters. In next week’s blog, I will review the activity during the four days in Paris, and our exciting meeting with the incredible Tree of Peace of Artist.
With less than a month left in my term as International President of Alpha Omega International President, it has been a year of striving to serve the fraternity to the best of my ability, and to emphasize our members, while really listening to the voices of members from around the world. I hope to see many of you at the Convention in San Diego at the end of the month, where Marshal Bob Simon and his committee have worked very hard to bring attendees a fun and fraternal week. I look forward to greeting all of you there.
PLEASE VISIT: www.AmericasToothfairy.org for TOMORROW's SMILE UPDATES & OPPORTUNITIES
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Thursday, November 4, 2010
It's Nov 4th, + Alpha Omega Has News
As I’m writing this, I find it amazing that it already November 4th, which, by the way, is also my 32nd Wedding Anniversary. With our fabulous International Convention in San Diego only seven weeks away, I urge you to make your reservations now to attend an unbelievable week of fraternalism, professionalism and Judaic values. Marshal Bob Simon and his committee have “left no stone unturned” to assure that this will be one of our greatest conventions ever. Please go to: http://aosunnydays2010.ao.org for fabulous details and to register. Everything from the fun-packed schedule, to the top-notch Continuing Education, to our magnificent Honors Night, to the very attractive hotel room rate at the Hyatt Regency Mission Bay, makes this a “must attend” convention. Our bloc of rooms at our San Diego location with the great group rate are moving quickly, so please act fast.
Packed into this great Convention schedule is some of the finest Continuing Education offered anywhere? Not only are there four days where there will be Video Continuing Education offered, but there will top-notch “live presenters,” also, including: noted Professor Hessam Nowzari, who will be presenting his “Global Smiles Initiative” lecture; USC Dean Avisai Sadan; several “Pearls” short presentations; and student Poster presentations/ table clinics. In addition, in attendance for all or part of the Convention will be the Deans of both Israeli dental schools, Adam Stabholz and Iliana Eli; the head of the School of Postgraduate Dentistry at Ramban, Eli Machtel; and the Dean of A.T.Stills University, Jack Dillenberg; and D. Walter Cohen, Dean of Drexel Medical School and an Achievement Award winner himself. At Honors Night, we will not only be installing our International Officers for 2011, but will be bestowing our highest honor, our Achievement Medal Award, to Stan Bergman, CEO of Henry Schein.
We will be introducing our fabulous Tree of Peace program to enhance our efforts for our Global Oral Health Initiatives. This program is based on the moving Tree of Peace sculpture that Allen Finkelstein generously donated in 2007 and sits in front of HU Dental School founded by Alpha Omega International Dental School, and should help “brand” and “recognize” our many generous fraters. This program will become a symbol of recognition for not only representing our good work, but also for rewarding the generosity of those who donate to our worldwide causes.
In a couple of weeks, I shall be traveling to Zurich, Strasbourg and Paris, to meet with many of our European fraters, and to hopefully strengthen the bonds of friendship, understanding and fraternalism amongst our members worldwide. When I return from that trip, I am honored to be able to go directly from the airport to Manhattan, to attend the DVI (Dental Volunteers for Israel) 30th Anniversary Gala, to indicate Alpha Omega’s solidarity and support for that magnificent organization and cause. One of the honorees will be our Board Member, Steve Kess.I hope to see many of our local fraters there and many out of town fraters who will be in for the Greater New York Dental Meeting, as well.
When I began this year as your International President, I pronounced that my main goal was to make 2010, “The Year For Our Members.” We have made great strides this year in that direction, and I hope that my Blog has helped to communication some of what has been going on. Please consider joining us at our International Convention in December in San Diego, and “get the feeling,” the enthusiasm, and the fraternalism, that makes Alpha Omega so unique.
PLEASE VISIT: www.AmericasToothfairy.org for TOMORROW's SMILE UPDATES & OPPORTUNITIES
Packed into this great Convention schedule is some of the finest Continuing Education offered anywhere? Not only are there four days where there will be Video Continuing Education offered, but there will top-notch “live presenters,” also, including: noted Professor Hessam Nowzari, who will be presenting his “Global Smiles Initiative” lecture; USC Dean Avisai Sadan; several “Pearls” short presentations; and student Poster presentations/ table clinics. In addition, in attendance for all or part of the Convention will be the Deans of both Israeli dental schools, Adam Stabholz and Iliana Eli; the head of the School of Postgraduate Dentistry at Ramban, Eli Machtel; and the Dean of A.T.Stills University, Jack Dillenberg; and D. Walter Cohen, Dean of Drexel Medical School and an Achievement Award winner himself. At Honors Night, we will not only be installing our International Officers for 2011, but will be bestowing our highest honor, our Achievement Medal Award, to Stan Bergman, CEO of Henry Schein.
We will be introducing our fabulous Tree of Peace program to enhance our efforts for our Global Oral Health Initiatives. This program is based on the moving Tree of Peace sculpture that Allen Finkelstein generously donated in 2007 and sits in front of HU Dental School founded by Alpha Omega International Dental School, and should help “brand” and “recognize” our many generous fraters. This program will become a symbol of recognition for not only representing our good work, but also for rewarding the generosity of those who donate to our worldwide causes.
In a couple of weeks, I shall be traveling to Zurich, Strasbourg and Paris, to meet with many of our European fraters, and to hopefully strengthen the bonds of friendship, understanding and fraternalism amongst our members worldwide. When I return from that trip, I am honored to be able to go directly from the airport to Manhattan, to attend the DVI (Dental Volunteers for Israel) 30th Anniversary Gala, to indicate Alpha Omega’s solidarity and support for that magnificent organization and cause. One of the honorees will be our Board Member, Steve Kess.I hope to see many of our local fraters there and many out of town fraters who will be in for the Greater New York Dental Meeting, as well.
When I began this year as your International President, I pronounced that my main goal was to make 2010, “The Year For Our Members.” We have made great strides this year in that direction, and I hope that my Blog has helped to communication some of what has been going on. Please consider joining us at our International Convention in December in San Diego, and “get the feeling,” the enthusiasm, and the fraternalism, that makes Alpha Omega so unique.
PLEASE VISIT: www.AmericasToothfairy.org for TOMORROW's SMILE UPDATES & OPPORTUNITIES
Thursday, October 21, 2010
AO- Nurturing Our Future Leaders
Every time I have the pleasure of seeing our wonderful Fraters from the Boston area, I am reminded of what makes Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity so great! This chapter knows how to combine all three sides of our triangle - - they continuously run some of the finest scientific and education programs (PROFESSIONALISM) under the leadership of Brian Miller; they support the students at three dental schools, and have a kinship and a warmth that is exemplified by the inimitable Murray Miller (FRATERNALISM); and they generously support numerous charitable endeavors both in Israel and elsewhere (JUDAIC values of tzedakah and tikun olam). This past weekend condensed all of these three aspects into one great fraternal weekend. It began with a fabulous all-day program on Friday, conducted generously by the wonderful and energetic Steve Anderson (an AO International Board member). Steve, of course was his usual wonderful self, and Brian Miller made sure that all details were fully prepared. Friday night, Steve Spitz opened up his lovely home for a traditional Shabbat dinner (even if over 60 people were there). All day, Saturday, until mid-day Sunday, approximately 70 enthusiastic fraters attended our Leadership Summit. This program, organized by President- Elect Mike Tenenbaum, and facilitated by Nicole and Ayelet from our Headquarters Office, was amazingly well attended, especially by students. Students from as far away as California to the west, and Florida to the south, north from Buffalo and of course from Boston schools came to be part of this conference. I found that individuals that attended were a true indication of how motivated our next generation of potential Alpha Omega leaders are, and how invested they are in contributing toward Alpha Omega’s future.
Our Student Activities Committee (SAC) is composed of three of the most enthusiastic, hard working co-chairs in recent memory. Andrea Heckler, Rachel Davis, and Richard Halpern. They work closely and in coordination with our motivated and energetic ISR’s Matt Rossen and Whitney Mostafiz. Matt and Whitney spent countless hours making phone calls, sending e-mails, and reaching out to students to motivate them to attend this seminar. These two ISR’s deserve the thanks of each and every member of Alpha Omega.
Bobby Geiman, Columbia’s President and Matt Schorr, Yoni Moskowitz ( our singer) and many others from his chapter took the Bolt bus to Boston and contributed their enthusiasm and input. I have come to know several of the members of this chapter in the past couple of years, and this is one of the most terrific group of students I have seen in quite some time. Justin Ohnigan from this chapter carried over his enthusiasm from this program to plan a Chemlog implant (Alpha Omega Winery) and cheese program for students and alumni on November 7th.
Many of us know Harvey Quinton as the New Yorker turned Floridian, who left our four seasons to depart for the south where he could scuba dive year around. Harvey has worked very closely with the students from Nova chapter, and brought eight students to the seminar from Nova. What an outstanding group, who learned and listened to make AO the best at NOVA. Jessica Blanco, and Sal Colombo stand out as great participants at the seminar. They initiated 65 new students this year.
Student Representative to AO Foundation Jonathan Miller brought along t-shirts and scrubs, as a Foundation fundraiser. The students enthusiastically believe in tzedakah and tikun olam, and are some of our strongest advocates for GOHI. Our student webmaster Nat Lawson traveled up from Alabama to participate and share. For those of you that do not know Nat, he is related to the incredible Alpha Omega “Shaw” family, and is following in the glorious AO tradition of his relatives!
Heather Stephens traveled all the way from the west coast for the Summit, and is very much looking forward to encourage many others in her chapter to come to the San Diego Convention, especially because their esteemed dean, Dr. Avishai Sadan, end their Periodontics Professor Hessam Nowzari, will be giving a Continuing Ed seminar on December 31st. The last time I saw Dean Sadan and Professor Nowzari was at Hebrew University, where they were amongst a group of alumni from the Class of 1991, many of which have become deans and other leaders of the profession. However, this time, Avishai and Hessam will be presenting their seminar in English (at Hebrew University, they had English slides, but conducted the seminar in Hebrew).I look forward to being able to follow the lecture with ease the second time around.
All those in attendance left the seminar with warm fraternal feelings, and a better understanding of what Alpha Omega is all about. Leadership Seminars are essential for Alpha Omega to develop leaders, and accomplish its mission.
We are now only approximately two months before the Yearly International Convention in San Diego, from December 25- January 1st. We have great group rates at the Hyatt Regency Mission Bay, and Marshal Bob Simon and his committee have planned an eventful, fraternal, community-oriented, value-packed, Continuing Ed loaded week. I urge you to consider attending if you have not yet finalized your plans. Go to: http://aosunnydays2010.ao.org, for details and to register. If you’ve never been to an AO Convention, go to one and “you’ll be hooked.” If you haven’t been in a while, come to this Convention, and you’ll see what you’ve been missing. If you are a “regular,” you’ll love what Bob and his committee have in store for you this year! I look forward to seeing you all in San Diego.
PLEASE VISIT: www.AmericasToothfairy.org for TOMORROW's SMILE UPDATES & OPPORTUNITIES
Our Student Activities Committee (SAC) is composed of three of the most enthusiastic, hard working co-chairs in recent memory. Andrea Heckler, Rachel Davis, and Richard Halpern. They work closely and in coordination with our motivated and energetic ISR’s Matt Rossen and Whitney Mostafiz. Matt and Whitney spent countless hours making phone calls, sending e-mails, and reaching out to students to motivate them to attend this seminar. These two ISR’s deserve the thanks of each and every member of Alpha Omega.
Bobby Geiman, Columbia’s President and Matt Schorr, Yoni Moskowitz ( our singer) and many others from his chapter took the Bolt bus to Boston and contributed their enthusiasm and input. I have come to know several of the members of this chapter in the past couple of years, and this is one of the most terrific group of students I have seen in quite some time. Justin Ohnigan from this chapter carried over his enthusiasm from this program to plan a Chemlog implant (Alpha Omega Winery) and cheese program for students and alumni on November 7th.
Many of us know Harvey Quinton as the New Yorker turned Floridian, who left our four seasons to depart for the south where he could scuba dive year around. Harvey has worked very closely with the students from Nova chapter, and brought eight students to the seminar from Nova. What an outstanding group, who learned and listened to make AO the best at NOVA. Jessica Blanco, and Sal Colombo stand out as great participants at the seminar. They initiated 65 new students this year.
Student Representative to AO Foundation Jonathan Miller brought along t-shirts and scrubs, as a Foundation fundraiser. The students enthusiastically believe in tzedakah and tikun olam, and are some of our strongest advocates for GOHI. Our student webmaster Nat Lawson traveled up from Alabama to participate and share. For those of you that do not know Nat, he is related to the incredible Alpha Omega “Shaw” family, and is following in the glorious AO tradition of his relatives!
Heather Stephens traveled all the way from the west coast for the Summit, and is very much looking forward to encourage many others in her chapter to come to the San Diego Convention, especially because their esteemed dean, Dr. Avishai Sadan, end their Periodontics Professor Hessam Nowzari, will be giving a Continuing Ed seminar on December 31st. The last time I saw Dean Sadan and Professor Nowzari was at Hebrew University, where they were amongst a group of alumni from the Class of 1991, many of which have become deans and other leaders of the profession. However, this time, Avishai and Hessam will be presenting their seminar in English (at Hebrew University, they had English slides, but conducted the seminar in Hebrew).I look forward to being able to follow the lecture with ease the second time around.
All those in attendance left the seminar with warm fraternal feelings, and a better understanding of what Alpha Omega is all about. Leadership Seminars are essential for Alpha Omega to develop leaders, and accomplish its mission.
We are now only approximately two months before the Yearly International Convention in San Diego, from December 25- January 1st. We have great group rates at the Hyatt Regency Mission Bay, and Marshal Bob Simon and his committee have planned an eventful, fraternal, community-oriented, value-packed, Continuing Ed loaded week. I urge you to consider attending if you have not yet finalized your plans. Go to: http://aosunnydays2010.ao.org, for details and to register. If you’ve never been to an AO Convention, go to one and “you’ll be hooked.” If you haven’t been in a while, come to this Convention, and you’ll see what you’ve been missing. If you are a “regular,” you’ll love what Bob and his committee have in store for you this year! I look forward to seeing you all in San Diego.
PLEASE VISIT: www.AmericasToothfairy.org for TOMORROW's SMILE UPDATES & OPPORTUNITIES
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Boston & Leadership & More Rain Predicted!
As I prepare to leave this coming Friday morning for Boston,the weather calls for a Nor’easter. I will once again have the opportunity to listen to the inimitable Steve Anderson at the Boston Alumni Chapter Scientific Meeting, and then participate in the Leadership Program that President-Elect Mike Tenenbaum has planned, I have several thoughts .The Friday program is once again is being chaired by Boston Alumnus Brian Miller, who has been coordinating programs for the Boston chapter for over two decades. Brian is a great example of one of Alpha Omega’s many “unsung heroes,” as someone who makes a significant contribution to AO on an ongoing basis, quietly and without fanfare. Brian is a regular International Convention attendee, and it has been my pleasure to know Brian as a friend since my dental school days. For years, Brian, Murray, and my dear friend Lenny Miller always kidded with each other with their own variation of a vaudeville routine, “Dr. Miller,” “Dr. Miller,” “Dr. Miller.” Our Corporate Board member Steve Anderson has been generously donating his time, efforts, and monies to Alpha Omega for some time, and his Boston presentation is another example of his generosity. To give you an idea of how good a presenter Steve is, when he gave a presentation at the Queens County Dental Society (QCDS) in conjunction with Queens Nassau AO chapter some time back, QCDS Executive Director Bill Bayer, who hears hundreds of speakers annually, said that Steve’s presentation was so valuable, interesting, and professionally presented, that it was one of the very few that he remained in the room for the entire presentation. What better recommendation than that! Thank you, Steve.
On Friday night, BOD member Steve Spitz is hosting a Shabbat dinner at his home. What a wonderful Judaic and fraternal gesture!! So, between Steve Anderson’s presentation on Friday, and Steve Spitz magnificent generosity, we have a first-hand example of all three sides of the AO triangle - - - professionalism, fraternalism and Judaism.
We are anticipating a very large turnout (one of the largest in years) of students and alumni, for the Saturday/ Sunday Leadership Seminar. Any organization that wants to evolve and succeed, as well as achieve its mission, must take seriously its commitment towards leadership identification, qualification, training and development. Leadership training should be ongoing. Our next leadership program will be at the San Diego Convention. If you are interested in playing a leadership role, or sharing with others knowledge gained from their experiences and expertise, please attend our leadership programs. I have been speaking about the need to enhance our leadership training and development, and programs like this one are an important step in that journey.
I had the pleasure of speaking to the motivating and energetic Stephanie Rashewky this week. Stephanie, who was the only ISR in my memory to serve two years in that position, is presently in an Anesthesiology Residency at Stony Brook. In the coming weeks, I am planning a drive out to see her, and to make a special presentation to her in honor of her years of exemplary AO leadership in the presence of the Dean.
One of the great challenges involved in leading Alpha Omega is the need for much advance planning. Programs like the Boston Leadership program take the Chairperson many months to develop and plan, and to arrange all necessary details. Our International Conventions are well over a year in the planning, and with only a little over two months to go, I urge those of you who have not yet made your reservations and arrangements to attend this year’s International Convention in San Diego, to do so as soon as possible. Marshal Bob Simon and his committee have arranged a unique program. As an extra bonus, our Convention Group Rate at the Hyatt Regency Mission Bay is the unheard of, only $149 per night per room. Get all the details and reserve online at: http://aosunnydays2010.ao.org.
With about 80% of my term now complete, I hope that I have been able to address my stated goal of opening up channels of communication, and rededicating ourselves to Member Benefits, and to our members. Attendees at the Boston Leadership will be amongst the first to see our new Member Benefits Power Point presentation, put together and coordinator by International Editor Fred Margolis and presented by David Schneider. I will be presenting and promoting the GOHI Chapter Challenge and the evolution of a GOHI project for each chapter. With the Jewish holidays now complete, I wish all of you, a year of personal fulfillment, and that every day, you are given more and more reasons to be proud to be an Alpha Omegan. Together, Alpha Omega can achieve every one of our goals.
PLEASE VISIT: www.AmericasToothfairy.org for TOMORROW's SMILE UPDATES & OPPORTUNITIES
On Friday night, BOD member Steve Spitz is hosting a Shabbat dinner at his home. What a wonderful Judaic and fraternal gesture!! So, between Steve Anderson’s presentation on Friday, and Steve Spitz magnificent generosity, we have a first-hand example of all three sides of the AO triangle - - - professionalism, fraternalism and Judaism.
We are anticipating a very large turnout (one of the largest in years) of students and alumni, for the Saturday/ Sunday Leadership Seminar. Any organization that wants to evolve and succeed, as well as achieve its mission, must take seriously its commitment towards leadership identification, qualification, training and development. Leadership training should be ongoing. Our next leadership program will be at the San Diego Convention. If you are interested in playing a leadership role, or sharing with others knowledge gained from their experiences and expertise, please attend our leadership programs. I have been speaking about the need to enhance our leadership training and development, and programs like this one are an important step in that journey.
I had the pleasure of speaking to the motivating and energetic Stephanie Rashewky this week. Stephanie, who was the only ISR in my memory to serve two years in that position, is presently in an Anesthesiology Residency at Stony Brook. In the coming weeks, I am planning a drive out to see her, and to make a special presentation to her in honor of her years of exemplary AO leadership in the presence of the Dean.
One of the great challenges involved in leading Alpha Omega is the need for much advance planning. Programs like the Boston Leadership program take the Chairperson many months to develop and plan, and to arrange all necessary details. Our International Conventions are well over a year in the planning, and with only a little over two months to go, I urge those of you who have not yet made your reservations and arrangements to attend this year’s International Convention in San Diego, to do so as soon as possible. Marshal Bob Simon and his committee have arranged a unique program. As an extra bonus, our Convention Group Rate at the Hyatt Regency Mission Bay is the unheard of, only $149 per night per room. Get all the details and reserve online at: http://aosunnydays2010.ao.org.
With about 80% of my term now complete, I hope that I have been able to address my stated goal of opening up channels of communication, and rededicating ourselves to Member Benefits, and to our members. Attendees at the Boston Leadership will be amongst the first to see our new Member Benefits Power Point presentation, put together and coordinator by International Editor Fred Margolis and presented by David Schneider. I will be presenting and promoting the GOHI Chapter Challenge and the evolution of a GOHI project for each chapter. With the Jewish holidays now complete, I wish all of you, a year of personal fulfillment, and that every day, you are given more and more reasons to be proud to be an Alpha Omegan. Together, Alpha Omega can achieve every one of our goals.
PLEASE VISIT: www.AmericasToothfairy.org for TOMORROW's SMILE UPDATES & OPPORTUNITIES
Friday, October 1, 2010
"Shuffling Off to Buffalo" - - AO Style
As we complete the holiest of periods in the Jewish calendar, we are also beginning the final quarter of 2010. When last I blogged, I was departing from Toronto and crossing the border into Buffalo.
That afternoon, the incomparable Renzo Nylander picked me up, and took me to the lovely event at the country club, attended by members of both the alumni and student chapters. Renzo should serve us all as a role model of what a true “mensch” is - - selfless, always willing to chip in, and someone that can always be counted on. Renzo has served tirelessly in his local area, as well as in the International arena, presently completing his term as a member of the International Board of Directors. Renzo is always happy to explain that his long-term commitment to Alpha Omega was indoctrinated into him by the friendship and loyalty extended to him by P.I.P. Ed Dweck and his wife Ruth. This clearly points to the importance of the “personal touch” in Alpha Omega, and how important the fraternal aspect of the organization is. Regular convention attendees have had the privilege of meeting, getting to know, and being inspired by Renzo, who has been attending Conventions for the last four decades. One of the reasons that I encourage people to attend Conventions is to have the opportunity to meet wonderful fraters like Renzo. Give yourself a special treat - - come to the Convention in San Diego many great reasons and have the opportunity to be inspired by Renzo Nylander! Perhaps you will inspire someone else like Renzo has throughout the years!
One of the real treats of being your International President is having the opportunity to meet so many wonderful fraters during visitations. The alumni and student chapters in Buffalo were certainly examples of that! Their evening program, chaired by President Jeff Goldberg, featured three student speakers, installation and my presentation and initiation of 22 new members to the student chapter. Student Chapter President Eugene Khaylofsky, the first speaker, has done a wonderful job leading his chapter to a higher level, by combining all aspects of our fraternity to encourage greater involvement. Having the opportunity to meet and listen to second year dental student Amy Panzok, our second speaker, was a special treat. Amy spent the summer in a program at Hebrew University Hadassah School of Dental Medicine, Founded by Alpha Omega Fraternity. Amy gave a terrific presentation discussing her two research projects that she was involved with, and is a great cheerleader for Alpha Omega, interspersing AO- related slides in her presentation. Amy profusely thanked all the Alpha Omegans who helped facilitate her trip to Israel, and was truly an inspiration to us all! Another student, Ariel Cohen, who speaks Spanish fluently, showed the “tikun olam” that we are so proud of us an Alpha Omega tradition. Ariel visited the Dominican Republic with a group from Buffalo, and volunteered his services in an area that was much in need of care. Blair Braunstein (PIP Steve Braunstein’s son and Secretary of the student chapter) was leading his student chapter’s fundraising efforts, selling molar shaped cutting board and miniature impression tray key chains( a great fund raiser, he will bring to convention). In another example of a second generation Alpha Omega story, Stacy Schoff and her dad were both at the event. Stacy is planning on attending the upcoming Leadership Seminar in Boston, in two weeks. As I have in all my visitations, I have been encouraging our past, present and future leaders to consider attending the Leadership Seminars, to learn more, both about AO and acquire leadership skills.
Buffalo Alumni Chapter President Jeff Goldberg acted as the emcee for the evening, and oversaw an inspiring evening of well coordinated programming. It was great to see 22 students initiated as new fraters. Marshall Fagin coordinates a very worthwhile community service program supported by our Buffalo fraters. They help staff a dental clinic to help the underserved population receive dental care that they otherwise would not. This program permits students to perform dental care under the supervision of licensed dentists, and is another fine example of GOHI- style projects that so many of our local chapters have been conducting for many years.
Of course, no mention of the Buffalo chapter would be complete without a mention of Renzo Nylander and his annual visits to Ghana to serve the many underserved in that needy nation. I would also feel remiss if I did not thank P.I.P Steve Braunstein for all his assistance prior to my visit, his advice throughout this year, and for taking me on a tour of Buffalo, and being such a wonderful host. After taking me on this late night tour, Steve insisted that I return to his house, where Terri and he were incredible hosts. I have known Steve for many years, and we still laugh about the time at the Dearborn (Feel the Warmth) Convention that Richard had to jumpstart Steve’s diesel car. I left Buffalo early the next morning, and flew back to New York to see some patients.Work, ugh!!!
The week was a typical busy Alpha Omega week, with lots of discussions, phoning, conference calls, e-mails, etc. It was great to see that International President-Elect Michael Tenenbaum, working so hard on the final touches for the Boston Leadership Convention.
Please remember our two major events coming up this corner.
(1) In Boston, on the weekend of October 15-17th, the Boston alumni chapter is sponsoring Steve Anderson’s seminar on Friday, and, under the leadership of Mike Tenenbaum, the Leadership Seminar will be held on Saturday and Sunday. If you receive E-Blasts, you have received information about these programs, and, for more information e-mail Mike Tenenbaum at: tenedent@aol.com, or call our International Headquarters at: (877) MRS-TINT.
(2) If you have not yet done so, plan on joining all our great fraters like Renzo, at our International Convention in San Diego, from December 25th to January 1st. Convention Marshal Bob Simon and his committee have created an incredible event. If you really want to know why it is so important to be a member of Alpha Omega, and you want to feel really good about belonging, while enjoying a great week, join us at Convention. The Hyatt Regency Mission Bay’s special AO Convention rate of only $149 per night is just one of the great values extended at this program. Go to the convention website at: http://aosunnydays2010.ao.org to get detailed information, as well as a link to register. I hope to see you there!
Have a great week!
PLEASE VISIT: www.AmericasToothfairy.org for TOMORROW's SMILE UPDATES & OPPORTUNITIES
That afternoon, the incomparable Renzo Nylander picked me up, and took me to the lovely event at the country club, attended by members of both the alumni and student chapters. Renzo should serve us all as a role model of what a true “mensch” is - - selfless, always willing to chip in, and someone that can always be counted on. Renzo has served tirelessly in his local area, as well as in the International arena, presently completing his term as a member of the International Board of Directors. Renzo is always happy to explain that his long-term commitment to Alpha Omega was indoctrinated into him by the friendship and loyalty extended to him by P.I.P. Ed Dweck and his wife Ruth. This clearly points to the importance of the “personal touch” in Alpha Omega, and how important the fraternal aspect of the organization is. Regular convention attendees have had the privilege of meeting, getting to know, and being inspired by Renzo, who has been attending Conventions for the last four decades. One of the reasons that I encourage people to attend Conventions is to have the opportunity to meet wonderful fraters like Renzo. Give yourself a special treat - - come to the Convention in San Diego many great reasons and have the opportunity to be inspired by Renzo Nylander! Perhaps you will inspire someone else like Renzo has throughout the years!
One of the real treats of being your International President is having the opportunity to meet so many wonderful fraters during visitations. The alumni and student chapters in Buffalo were certainly examples of that! Their evening program, chaired by President Jeff Goldberg, featured three student speakers, installation and my presentation and initiation of 22 new members to the student chapter. Student Chapter President Eugene Khaylofsky, the first speaker, has done a wonderful job leading his chapter to a higher level, by combining all aspects of our fraternity to encourage greater involvement. Having the opportunity to meet and listen to second year dental student Amy Panzok, our second speaker, was a special treat. Amy spent the summer in a program at Hebrew University Hadassah School of Dental Medicine, Founded by Alpha Omega Fraternity. Amy gave a terrific presentation discussing her two research projects that she was involved with, and is a great cheerleader for Alpha Omega, interspersing AO- related slides in her presentation. Amy profusely thanked all the Alpha Omegans who helped facilitate her trip to Israel, and was truly an inspiration to us all! Another student, Ariel Cohen, who speaks Spanish fluently, showed the “tikun olam” that we are so proud of us an Alpha Omega tradition. Ariel visited the Dominican Republic with a group from Buffalo, and volunteered his services in an area that was much in need of care. Blair Braunstein (PIP Steve Braunstein’s son and Secretary of the student chapter) was leading his student chapter’s fundraising efforts, selling molar shaped cutting board and miniature impression tray key chains( a great fund raiser, he will bring to convention). In another example of a second generation Alpha Omega story, Stacy Schoff and her dad were both at the event. Stacy is planning on attending the upcoming Leadership Seminar in Boston, in two weeks. As I have in all my visitations, I have been encouraging our past, present and future leaders to consider attending the Leadership Seminars, to learn more, both about AO and acquire leadership skills.
Buffalo Alumni Chapter President Jeff Goldberg acted as the emcee for the evening, and oversaw an inspiring evening of well coordinated programming. It was great to see 22 students initiated as new fraters. Marshall Fagin coordinates a very worthwhile community service program supported by our Buffalo fraters. They help staff a dental clinic to help the underserved population receive dental care that they otherwise would not. This program permits students to perform dental care under the supervision of licensed dentists, and is another fine example of GOHI- style projects that so many of our local chapters have been conducting for many years.
Of course, no mention of the Buffalo chapter would be complete without a mention of Renzo Nylander and his annual visits to Ghana to serve the many underserved in that needy nation. I would also feel remiss if I did not thank P.I.P Steve Braunstein for all his assistance prior to my visit, his advice throughout this year, and for taking me on a tour of Buffalo, and being such a wonderful host. After taking me on this late night tour, Steve insisted that I return to his house, where Terri and he were incredible hosts. I have known Steve for many years, and we still laugh about the time at the Dearborn (Feel the Warmth) Convention that Richard had to jumpstart Steve’s diesel car. I left Buffalo early the next morning, and flew back to New York to see some patients.Work, ugh!!!
The week was a typical busy Alpha Omega week, with lots of discussions, phoning, conference calls, e-mails, etc. It was great to see that International President-Elect Michael Tenenbaum, working so hard on the final touches for the Boston Leadership Convention.
Please remember our two major events coming up this corner.
(1) In Boston, on the weekend of October 15-17th, the Boston alumni chapter is sponsoring Steve Anderson’s seminar on Friday, and, under the leadership of Mike Tenenbaum, the Leadership Seminar will be held on Saturday and Sunday. If you receive E-Blasts, you have received information about these programs, and, for more information e-mail Mike Tenenbaum at: tenedent@aol.com, or call our International Headquarters at: (877) MRS-TINT.
(2) If you have not yet done so, plan on joining all our great fraters like Renzo, at our International Convention in San Diego, from December 25th to January 1st. Convention Marshal Bob Simon and his committee have created an incredible event. If you really want to know why it is so important to be a member of Alpha Omega, and you want to feel really good about belonging, while enjoying a great week, join us at Convention. The Hyatt Regency Mission Bay’s special AO Convention rate of only $149 per night is just one of the great values extended at this program. Go to the convention website at: http://aosunnydays2010.ao.org to get detailed information, as well as a link to register. I hope to see you there!
Have a great week!
PLEASE VISIT: www.AmericasToothfairy.org for TOMORROW's SMILE UPDATES & OPPORTUNITIES
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Alpha Omega's President goes North -Deliciously Satisfying
As we conclude our High Holidays, and have searched our souls, repented our past, and sought to be better and more personally fulfilled for the coming year, I want to take this opportunity to wish all of you a year of health, happiness, success, and personal enrichment.
As soon as the Shofar was sounded, indicated the conclusion of Yom Kippur, I realized that I would be spending my next few days busy with my responsibilities as Alpha Omega’s International President, not the bagel slicer at the break fast. Very early Sunday morning, I departed on my Jet Blue flight out of JFK International Airport, for my flight to Buffalo. My plan was to visit with my Northern friends, spending Sunday and Monday with the Toronto and Pi chapters, and Tuesday with the Buffalo alumni and undergraduate chapters, before flying back Wednesday morning, to spend time with my patients back in my office on Wednesday afternoon.
However, before I tell you about my wonderful visits with these great Alpha Omega areas, I want to bring you up to date about the “rest of the story” - - that is, what occurred as a result of our involvement with the California Dental Association. The American Dental Association and its officers immediately responded, and indicated their understanding of our concerns. In fact, the ADA requested to be included on the Blog notification list and was very interested in our social media activities and our communication efforts. They want to learn from us. The ADA will be having a committee this year examining ways to enhance both their own, as well as component societies sensitivity to diversity and our concerns, as well as similar concerns by other ethnic and religious groups. On the other hand, after ten plus days, the California Dental Association President, Dr.Thomas H. Stewart, wrote that the “California Dental Association (CDA) deeply regrets the overlapping dates of Rosh Hashanah and the convention. The decision to move forward with the dates of our convention was not made lightly or without respect and understanding of its impact.” Dr. Stewart continued by saying that, “unfortunately, there was no alternative solution for the San Francisco meeting this year.” Dr. Stewart concludes his letter by stating that, “No other scheduled convention or conference dates coincide with any Jewish holidays. As future years schedules are planned, CDA’s priority will remain to avoid any such conflict and respect the observances and faiths of our many members.”
While I very much appreciate receiving the above letter, it shows the fact that often leaders of other organizations do not fully understand the significance of the High Holidays to most Jews. While I understand the difficulty in rescheduling, it is essential that we insist that non- Jewish leaders understand that we take insensitivity to our Jewish High Holidays as an insensitivity to our Jewish identity. While, unfortunately, we did not learn of this meeting until a very late date, I propose that we act to assure that these types of events and insensitivities do not occur in the future. I suggest that one of the duties of our newly refashioned Regents system, is that Regents, in coordination with our Headquarters Office communicate with the State Dental Societies, the various component dental societies, as well as the dental schools, etc., to explain our concerns in advance, and supply these groups with the upcoming Jewish calendars and a with a link to that information. In addition, I would suggest that the Regents create a format to coordinate their activities to assure that this never again occurs. If we do this successfully and vigilantly, something good, important and essential will happen as a result of this insensitive California situation.
After I drove across the Canadian Border, and was greeted and welcomed by the Boarder Officer, I proceeded to my hotel. I settled in and the Toronto Chapter’s President- Elect Elliott Weidman picked me and drove me to have dinner and conversation with the officers of both the Toronto and Pi (University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry) chapters. We then went to an amazingly warm reception, hosted with grace by President Mel Kay and his wife Cookie in their lovely home. The hospitality and enlightening conversation gave me further insight into the workings of this great chapter, and I was able to observe why the Toronto chapter is, in fact, the largest Alpha Omega chapter. Because of the size, scope and efforts of the Toronto chapter, there is a concerted effort to have multi-faceted programming to appeal to members with different interests, concerns, age groups, etc. Their programming is extensive and exciting!
International Convention Representative Avi Wurman picked me up Monday morning and we were able to have an in-depth discussion on various alternatives he is looking at for the 2013 Convention. Our 2010 Convention, of course, is in San Diego, the 2011 in Ft. Lauderdale, and in 2012 we will be in Scottsdale,AZ. Another reason to attend the San Diego Convention this December to have an opportunity to voice your opinion on where future Conventions should be held. Of course, Bob Simon and his committee have created a Convention program with great CE, fabulous events, great functions, a terrific hotel room rate, etc., so you should be there anyway. Please go to the Convention Web site at: http://aosunnydays.ao.org to see all the great details, and for registration information. You do not want to miss a minute of this great week…so register NOW!
Avi and I then went to the University Of Toronto Faculty Of Dentistry, and we met with Dean David Mock. David is a member of our Toronto chapter, and is serving his second consecutive full term as Dean. Serving more than one term is rare, but David agreed to help oversee a proposed upgrading of the dental facility. I spent lunch meeting with all classes of Pi chapter, and welcoming them, and congratulating them both on choosing dentistry, as well as choosing Alpha Omega. We had a good exchange of ideas, and I encouraged the students to learn the big picture beyond just being a student. Pi Chapter President, a second generation AO, Sari Hershenfield and her committee made me feel most welcomed. He dad, Ken Hershenfield is proud of her, as are all the Toronto AO’s. There were several multi generational AO Families, including the Kays, Pearlmutters,Chapnicks,Glick,Laski to name a very few. The Pi Chapter advisor, Brian Laski, won a very prestigious Orthodontic award at U of T this year and is an outstanding mentor. I had the opportunity to see and visit the AO Toronto’s building (house) and got a little tour of Toronto, before being taken to the Reception and Dinner meeting at a local synagogue. It was a wonderful feeling spending time and sharing ideas with over 250 members of my AO family! I got to see many old friends and make many new AO Friends in Toronto!
I left early Tuesday morning to drive back to Buffalo, to continue my visitation with their chapters. More about these great Alpha Omegas in next week’s blog. I did not want this blog to be too long and I did not want you ,all, to miss a minute of my great excursion to Buffalo. So we will shuffle back to Buffalo in next weeks’ blog.
I urge you all to remember two great upcoming events: Steve Anderson and the Leadership Seminar in Boston in Oct 15-17. Check out ao.org for details, or e-mail Michael Tenenbaum at: tenedent@aol.com. Of course, then the , next event is the year-end finale- the AO Convention from December 25- Jan 1. Go to http://aosunnydays,ao.org for details.
PLEASE VISIT: www.AmericasToothfairy.org for TOMORROW's SMILE UPDATES & OPPORTUNITIES
As soon as the Shofar was sounded, indicated the conclusion of Yom Kippur, I realized that I would be spending my next few days busy with my responsibilities as Alpha Omega’s International President, not the bagel slicer at the break fast. Very early Sunday morning, I departed on my Jet Blue flight out of JFK International Airport, for my flight to Buffalo. My plan was to visit with my Northern friends, spending Sunday and Monday with the Toronto and Pi chapters, and Tuesday with the Buffalo alumni and undergraduate chapters, before flying back Wednesday morning, to spend time with my patients back in my office on Wednesday afternoon.
However, before I tell you about my wonderful visits with these great Alpha Omega areas, I want to bring you up to date about the “rest of the story” - - that is, what occurred as a result of our involvement with the California Dental Association. The American Dental Association and its officers immediately responded, and indicated their understanding of our concerns. In fact, the ADA requested to be included on the Blog notification list and was very interested in our social media activities and our communication efforts. They want to learn from us. The ADA will be having a committee this year examining ways to enhance both their own, as well as component societies sensitivity to diversity and our concerns, as well as similar concerns by other ethnic and religious groups. On the other hand, after ten plus days, the California Dental Association President, Dr.Thomas H. Stewart, wrote that the “California Dental Association (CDA) deeply regrets the overlapping dates of Rosh Hashanah and the convention. The decision to move forward with the dates of our convention was not made lightly or without respect and understanding of its impact.” Dr. Stewart continued by saying that, “unfortunately, there was no alternative solution for the San Francisco meeting this year.” Dr. Stewart concludes his letter by stating that, “No other scheduled convention or conference dates coincide with any Jewish holidays. As future years schedules are planned, CDA’s priority will remain to avoid any such conflict and respect the observances and faiths of our many members.”
While I very much appreciate receiving the above letter, it shows the fact that often leaders of other organizations do not fully understand the significance of the High Holidays to most Jews. While I understand the difficulty in rescheduling, it is essential that we insist that non- Jewish leaders understand that we take insensitivity to our Jewish High Holidays as an insensitivity to our Jewish identity. While, unfortunately, we did not learn of this meeting until a very late date, I propose that we act to assure that these types of events and insensitivities do not occur in the future. I suggest that one of the duties of our newly refashioned Regents system, is that Regents, in coordination with our Headquarters Office communicate with the State Dental Societies, the various component dental societies, as well as the dental schools, etc., to explain our concerns in advance, and supply these groups with the upcoming Jewish calendars and a with a link to that information. In addition, I would suggest that the Regents create a format to coordinate their activities to assure that this never again occurs. If we do this successfully and vigilantly, something good, important and essential will happen as a result of this insensitive California situation.
After I drove across the Canadian Border, and was greeted and welcomed by the Boarder Officer, I proceeded to my hotel. I settled in and the Toronto Chapter’s President- Elect Elliott Weidman picked me and drove me to have dinner and conversation with the officers of both the Toronto and Pi (University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry) chapters. We then went to an amazingly warm reception, hosted with grace by President Mel Kay and his wife Cookie in their lovely home. The hospitality and enlightening conversation gave me further insight into the workings of this great chapter, and I was able to observe why the Toronto chapter is, in fact, the largest Alpha Omega chapter. Because of the size, scope and efforts of the Toronto chapter, there is a concerted effort to have multi-faceted programming to appeal to members with different interests, concerns, age groups, etc. Their programming is extensive and exciting!
International Convention Representative Avi Wurman picked me up Monday morning and we were able to have an in-depth discussion on various alternatives he is looking at for the 2013 Convention. Our 2010 Convention, of course, is in San Diego, the 2011 in Ft. Lauderdale, and in 2012 we will be in Scottsdale,AZ. Another reason to attend the San Diego Convention this December to have an opportunity to voice your opinion on where future Conventions should be held. Of course, Bob Simon and his committee have created a Convention program with great CE, fabulous events, great functions, a terrific hotel room rate, etc., so you should be there anyway. Please go to the Convention Web site at: http://aosunnydays.ao.org to see all the great details, and for registration information. You do not want to miss a minute of this great week…so register NOW!
Avi and I then went to the University Of Toronto Faculty Of Dentistry, and we met with Dean David Mock. David is a member of our Toronto chapter, and is serving his second consecutive full term as Dean. Serving more than one term is rare, but David agreed to help oversee a proposed upgrading of the dental facility. I spent lunch meeting with all classes of Pi chapter, and welcoming them, and congratulating them both on choosing dentistry, as well as choosing Alpha Omega. We had a good exchange of ideas, and I encouraged the students to learn the big picture beyond just being a student. Pi Chapter President, a second generation AO, Sari Hershenfield and her committee made me feel most welcomed. He dad, Ken Hershenfield is proud of her, as are all the Toronto AO’s. There were several multi generational AO Families, including the Kays, Pearlmutters,Chapnicks,Glick,Laski to name a very few. The Pi Chapter advisor, Brian Laski, won a very prestigious Orthodontic award at U of T this year and is an outstanding mentor. I had the opportunity to see and visit the AO Toronto’s building (house) and got a little tour of Toronto, before being taken to the Reception and Dinner meeting at a local synagogue. It was a wonderful feeling spending time and sharing ideas with over 250 members of my AO family! I got to see many old friends and make many new AO Friends in Toronto!
I left early Tuesday morning to drive back to Buffalo, to continue my visitation with their chapters. More about these great Alpha Omegas in next week’s blog. I did not want this blog to be too long and I did not want you ,all, to miss a minute of my great excursion to Buffalo. So we will shuffle back to Buffalo in next weeks’ blog.
I urge you all to remember two great upcoming events: Steve Anderson and the Leadership Seminar in Boston in Oct 15-17. Check out ao.org for details, or e-mail Michael Tenenbaum at: tenedent@aol.com. Of course, then the , next event is the year-end finale- the AO Convention from December 25- Jan 1. Go to http://aosunnydays,ao.org for details.
PLEASE VISIT: www.AmericasToothfairy.org for TOMORROW's SMILE UPDATES & OPPORTUNITIES
Friday, September 3, 2010
AO- As Relevant As Ever!
As we approach the High Holidays, it is important for all of us to appreciate how relevant Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity remains, even after more than 100 years. This past week I received information from a concerned California frater. The California Dental Association (CDA) had scheduled their semi-annual meeting in San Francisco, from September 9th- 11th. The CDA, and on its own website, had an apology posted. They stated that it was done because there was no other scheduling option. As we are all aware, there is always another option, and the Admin Committee felt that Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity should go “on the record” objecting to this insensitivity, with the hope to avoid similar insensitivities in the future. These types of insensitivities have occurred elsewhere through the years, and I am very proud of the fact that Alpha Omega has always “stood up” and objected. The following is the content of the letter sent to the President and President-Elect of the CDA:
- - - - - - - - - - - -
Thomas H. Stewart, DDS, President & Andrew Soderstrom, DDS, President-Elect
CDA
1201 K Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
Dear Doctors Stewart and Soderstrom:
It has brought to my attention that you are holding your semi-annual meeting in San Francisco on September 9-11. As you are undoubtedly aware, these dates are in direct conflict with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, one of the holiest of the Jewish High Holidays. Based on your posting on your website, you apologize for this, but claim that there was basically no option because of such items as scheduling, etc. While scheduling often causes obstacles, more sensitivity would require that you make far more of an effort not to hold meetings on Jewish High Holidays. Since there are over one million Jews residing in California, representing approximately 3.5% of the state’s population, and the percentage of Jewish dentists in the state is a higher percentage than that, it is certainly inappropriate to hold meetings that conflict with these dates. With the second largest Jewish population in the United States, I hope you realize how this can be viewed as insensitive, at the very least. How would others feel if your program conflicted with other important holidays? You certainly would not consider holding this type of event in conflict with those holidays. We run numerous meetings, and holiday calendars are available years in advance. There are always alternative dates when a meeting can be held with a little more effort. Since I have been informed that this meeting is largely subsidized by members’ dues to CDA, you have effectively precluded a significant part of your membership from being able to take advantage of attending this meeting, and taking CE courses and receiving credits that others can!
Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity was founded over one hundred years ago, in 1907, to combat rampant anti-Semitism within dental education. We have over 6,000 members worldwide, have founded and funded two dental schools, and our Alpha Omega Foundation has provided millions of dollars in supported for scientific and healthcare programs worldwide. We hold our International Convention every year in December, and this year we are convening in San Diego. We have numerous members and chapters throughout California, and this insensitivity is certainly an affront to them. While I trust that your intent was innocent, and was simply a scheduling error, I request that in the future, you seriously consider consulting a calendar to assure that there are no more of these scheduling conflicts. I believe that it would be a considerate and caring thing for you to issue some sort of apology to your Jewish members to show you are sensitive to their needs. As you know, some of the most renowned dental practitioners, educators, etc., in California are Jewish, and I am sure you would like to let them know that you care about them and their needs. In the future, please feel free to contact Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity and request a holiday calendar, so as to avoid even the perception of insensitivity. In these times, with so many conflicts and disagreements between people, I am sure you agree with me that we must all work together to be much more attuned to each other’s sensitivities.
I look forward to hearing from you so that I can be assured that you recognize why we are so sensitive about this issue.
Yours truly,
Charlene S. Berkman, D.M.D.
Alpha Omega International President for 2010
- - - - - - - - - - - -
Another important aspect of our fraternity is the “family” aspect, where we share life cycle events, both good and sad. This past week, PIP Barry Chapnick informed us of the passing of one of our Buffalo fraters. One of the events at every International Convention is our Memorial Service, where we honor the memories of our fraters who departed since the previous convention and the memory of the six million. Under the Chairmanship of Sam Unger, we will be holding our Memorial Service once again, this year at the Hyatt Regency Mission Bay in San Diego. Our Conventions are all about sharing - - sharing friendships, sharing knowledge, sharing joy and sharing the losses of loved ones. Marshal Bob Simon and his committee have organized a truly memorable week, and I highly recommend experiencing the unique AO experience by attending this year’s Convention.
The Alpha Omega Foundation also sells Tribute Cards, contact Gail Shupak (schupakdmd@aol.com) so that a charitable donation can be given in honor of the memory of a departed frater, or any other loved or cherished one. We all know the song, “We are family,” and indeed Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity is truly our international family!
PLEASE VISIT: www.AmericasToothfairy.org for TOMORROW's SMILE UPDATES & OPPORTUNITIES
- - - - - - - - - - - -
Thomas H. Stewart, DDS, President & Andrew Soderstrom, DDS, President-Elect
CDA
1201 K Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
Dear Doctors Stewart and Soderstrom:
It has brought to my attention that you are holding your semi-annual meeting in San Francisco on September 9-11. As you are undoubtedly aware, these dates are in direct conflict with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, one of the holiest of the Jewish High Holidays. Based on your posting on your website, you apologize for this, but claim that there was basically no option because of such items as scheduling, etc. While scheduling often causes obstacles, more sensitivity would require that you make far more of an effort not to hold meetings on Jewish High Holidays. Since there are over one million Jews residing in California, representing approximately 3.5% of the state’s population, and the percentage of Jewish dentists in the state is a higher percentage than that, it is certainly inappropriate to hold meetings that conflict with these dates. With the second largest Jewish population in the United States, I hope you realize how this can be viewed as insensitive, at the very least. How would others feel if your program conflicted with other important holidays? You certainly would not consider holding this type of event in conflict with those holidays. We run numerous meetings, and holiday calendars are available years in advance. There are always alternative dates when a meeting can be held with a little more effort. Since I have been informed that this meeting is largely subsidized by members’ dues to CDA, you have effectively precluded a significant part of your membership from being able to take advantage of attending this meeting, and taking CE courses and receiving credits that others can!
Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity was founded over one hundred years ago, in 1907, to combat rampant anti-Semitism within dental education. We have over 6,000 members worldwide, have founded and funded two dental schools, and our Alpha Omega Foundation has provided millions of dollars in supported for scientific and healthcare programs worldwide. We hold our International Convention every year in December, and this year we are convening in San Diego. We have numerous members and chapters throughout California, and this insensitivity is certainly an affront to them. While I trust that your intent was innocent, and was simply a scheduling error, I request that in the future, you seriously consider consulting a calendar to assure that there are no more of these scheduling conflicts. I believe that it would be a considerate and caring thing for you to issue some sort of apology to your Jewish members to show you are sensitive to their needs. As you know, some of the most renowned dental practitioners, educators, etc., in California are Jewish, and I am sure you would like to let them know that you care about them and their needs. In the future, please feel free to contact Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity and request a holiday calendar, so as to avoid even the perception of insensitivity. In these times, with so many conflicts and disagreements between people, I am sure you agree with me that we must all work together to be much more attuned to each other’s sensitivities.
I look forward to hearing from you so that I can be assured that you recognize why we are so sensitive about this issue.
Yours truly,
Charlene S. Berkman, D.M.D.
Alpha Omega International President for 2010
- - - - - - - - - - - -
Another important aspect of our fraternity is the “family” aspect, where we share life cycle events, both good and sad. This past week, PIP Barry Chapnick informed us of the passing of one of our Buffalo fraters. One of the events at every International Convention is our Memorial Service, where we honor the memories of our fraters who departed since the previous convention and the memory of the six million. Under the Chairmanship of Sam Unger, we will be holding our Memorial Service once again, this year at the Hyatt Regency Mission Bay in San Diego. Our Conventions are all about sharing - - sharing friendships, sharing knowledge, sharing joy and sharing the losses of loved ones. Marshal Bob Simon and his committee have organized a truly memorable week, and I highly recommend experiencing the unique AO experience by attending this year’s Convention.
The Alpha Omega Foundation also sells Tribute Cards, contact Gail Shupak (schupakdmd@aol.com) so that a charitable donation can be given in honor of the memory of a departed frater, or any other loved or cherished one. We all know the song, “We are family,” and indeed Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity is truly our international family!
PLEASE VISIT: www.AmericasToothfairy.org for TOMORROW's SMILE UPDATES & OPPORTUNITIES
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