November 17, 2023
Windy City Braintrust
MDA ED, Vicki Wilbers, traveled to Chicago at the start of the week to join other state executives and ADA staff for some lively discussion on potential changes in the membership model. There’s a lot of data to review that indicates where some change is needed, but you don’t make any decisions lightly. It’s important for these seasoned leaders to hash it out because they would be key players in any future implementation. Vicki reported that while the travel is a hassle, it is very beneficial to gather around the table. Plus it helps to have social time over dinner so colleagues can compare notes of what’s going on in their states. One day we might be able to provide more information, but it is worthy to note that this is an important aspect of Vicki’s role as your association Executive Director.
Inaugural FFT in Joplin
Meanwhile, in the road travel category, I drove to Joplin for our first-ever Food for Thought with the KCU CDM D1 class. It was a smashing success, with at least 74 of the 80 students in attendance. Our local Southwest Dental Society speakers, Drs. Grant Kirk and Conner Paustian, work together at Joplin Family Dentistry. They did a good job describing the local scene, sharing their journey and fielding a surprising number of questions. Of course the time-tested recipe of Chick-fil-A and free cash and prizes is the best way to connect. Students loved the Wheel of Names and got a good taste of the MDA offerings. Now, they just need to endure the long winter until we return.
The Week Ahead – Happy Thanksgiving!
While the first part of the week is crammed full of meetings, the rest of the week is a chance to slow down and enjoy Thanksgiving. What are your plans? I’ll be off to Tennessee because, well, long car trips are fun, right? Wherever you go and whoever you spend time with, all of us at the MDA wish you a safe and meaningful break. All the clinical studies indicate that gratitude is a key component to your wellbeing. We all have much to be thankful for even amid any trials. Here’s to seconds of your favorite dish!
Quote of the Week
It is not happy people who are thankful. It is thankful people who are happy.
