Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch was a beautiful place to host the 2019 WSOMS Annual Meeting. The weather was mild with a few desert-style spring downpours (sheets of rain followed by dry sunny skies). Days ranged in the 70’s with evenings dropping into sweater weather temps. Candid pictures of the event and activities are displayed at the top of the homepage and a photo album page.
Registration
Attendees were warmly greeted at the registration table by Executive Director Dr. Chuck Walter and his wife, Elsie. These two folks planned the entire event, prepared all the materials, and kept the program running smoothly start to finish. Dawn Groves, in charge of WSOMS media, was also at the table answering questions and helping out.
Upon registration, participants were given a folder packed with useful information about the event as well as activity options throughout the region. Included was a 20-page color program detailing the schedule, presentations, speaker bios, and sponsors.
Saturday night kicked off with a sunset reception on the patio, complete with a catered bar and buffet. The party was generously sponsored by US Oral Surgery Management.
Speakers
On the mornings of Sunday and Monday, Dr. Hal Crossley presented the topic of street drugs and opioid abuse. With a dry, occasionally politically incorrect wit, Dr. Crossley delivered 8 solid hours of advice and instruction, keeping everyone wide awake and entertained the entire time.
On Tuesday, Dr. Alan Herford shared an equally well-received presentation about new surgical technologies. Dr. Herford’s opening slides set the tone:
The Western Barbecue
The traditional Western Barbecue featured Dr. Elizabeth Kutcipal who was formally ushered into the role of WSOMS Board President for 2019/2020. Outgoing President Dr. Murray Jacobs did the honors. Many thanks to OMSNIC for sponsoring the popular end-of-conference event.
A special yee-haw goes to Dr. Chuck Walter for contacting Haul N Ass Productions and booking Diego the Beer Burro. Diego was a big hit as he carried a full cooler of brewskis around the patio while tolerating countless ear rubs and snapshots. Photos of the Diego are displayed at the top of the homepage and a photo album page.
The Exhibitors
Our cadre of exhibitors were great as always and several complimented us on our friendly, engaging membership. Schmoozing with exhibitors is an important, sometimes overlooked, conference responsibility. Companies pay significant fees to display their brands and many donate significant extra money to make our event special. It’s good that WSOMS members always make time to talk with the exhibitor reps, discussing at length their business and practice needs. The reps appreciate it as do the meeting organizers. Everyone benefits.
Note: Logos of the exhibitors are now featured in a looping slider at the foot of each web page. Not visible on cell phones. Sorry.
The next annual meeting will occur in two years—2021. Location and details will be posted as soon as they’re determined.
Recap Links:
- More Photos
- Featured Speakers, Harold Crossley DDS, MS, PhD, & Alan Herford DDS, MD.
- Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch in Scottsdale, Arizona.
The Twisted Vine Bar next to the pool.