Springfield Installs Officers
Last night I was able to join Springfield’s own Dr. Tom Stone, who serves as MDA President, at the spring installation and CE meeting. About 25 were in attendance as Dr. Stone honored outgoing President, Dr. Jacob Pack and installed incoming president, Dr. Tara Cash. Those two officers ceremonially passed the gavel between them. Dr. Stone then swore in the others GSDS board members and officers who were present including Dr. Jerry Cash, Dr. Lisa Castleman, Dr. Julie Becker, Dr. Whitney Bair (Vice President), Dr. Carla Duff ( President Elect), Dr. Tom Meyer and Dr. Ashley Meyer. They had one life member, Dr. Tom Meyer, on hand to recognize for his faithful membership over 30 years. After a delicious seafood-themed meal, Dr. Alan Rosen presented a CE course on Bio Rejuvenation. I’m not a dentist, but it was fascinating to learn about this technique and see actual patient cases. It was a pleasant event, and I get to return next week for their big Smiles From the Heart charity auction held every three years. Can’t wait to meet and mingle with members at this festive event.
Big BOT Meeting
Today Dr. Stone and I were back in Jefferson City along with the component trustees from around the state for the spring MDA Board of Trustees meeting. While the agenda is always full and eventful, perhaps the most interesting discussion centered around workforce issues. Dr. Guy Deyton, State Dental Director, made a guest appearance to present findings from multiple surveys and information gathered on this issue since 1990. From that year until now, the overall number of patient facing dentists has declined by about 325 dentists. In the same time, the state’s population has increased significantly. Add to that the COVID-effect and some school closings and other market pressures, and you have a work force that is undermanned in every position and under stress. Committees with representation from all parties are in motion to address solutions, funding sources, etc. It’s a complex issue that will take some revolutionary thought and focus to amend.
April Round Up and the Week Ahead
Storms rolled through all day today as the month comes to an end. Sunday is May Day and the countdown is on toward MOMOM and Connect4Success, plus the final two weeks of session. Next week is a gas guzzler as Team Travels head to St. Louis on Monday for National Signing Day with ATSU students. Then I’m back there on Wednesday for a local MOMOM planning meeting. The week ends with a Springfield trip for their auction.
Quote of the Week – via Dr. Deyton’s presentation today
“You can’t let people who are afraid of change keep you from doing the right thing.”
MDA ... The Week That Was 