September 15, 2023
We Reconvene This Blog To Bring You … Glacier National Park Lakes!
Wow, where did the last three weeks go? First, it’s hard to write a blog when you are in Montana on vacation. I have no doubt a ton of stuff happened at the MDA while I was out, but I wasn’t around to report on it or provide any photos. However, I am happy to share some beautiful photos of some of the lakes in Glacier National Park. The water is so clear, the surroundings are majestic, and the air is crisp and dry. We hiked and hiked, and I won’t bore you with all the details, but we did see three amazing lakes. First up is Avalanche Lake with it’s beautiful color. Next up is Hidden Lake, a good hike to a stunning view. And lastly, we have St Mary’s Lake, a big beautiful lake fed by several waterfalls. We even saw a moose!
Back in the Saddle
This week included preparation for the ADA House of Delegates, an MDAF Finance Committee meeting, some filming for a new advocacy/MODentPAC video, and the Southeast Dental Society installation banquet with guests, MDA President, Dr. Jeremy Bowen, and MODentPAC Chair, Dr. Kirk Opdahl. And yesterday the internet went down at the office, which was an inconvenient hiccup!
ASDA & Advocacy
Early each fall, the UMKC SOD ASDA Chapter holds Fever Week to educate and expose classmates to a variety of fun events and resources. The MDA chips in for lunch and sends a speaker. Yesterday I accompanied Dr. Ron Wilkerson, MDA Legislative and Regulatory Chair, for a presentation on the importance of advocacy. Always passionate about current issues, Dr. Wilkerson did a great job explaining our advocacy team and plans. Students were particularly excited about the EFDA and OPA expansion efforts. Thanks to Mikaylie Parco and her team for coordinating a great event.
The Week Ahead
The MDA staff is excited for Halie Payne’s visit on Monday to introduce us to her fabulous baby boy, Monroe. The rest of the week is mainly full of discussion. Aren’t you jealous? No travel on the horizon, but we do host the volunteer members of the MDA Foundation Board for their fall meeting. And I think the good folks at Greater St. Louis Dental Society are hosting a New Grad Welcome event on Thursday. Maybe we will get some photos.
Quote of the Week
Make your heart like a lake, with a calm, still surface, and great depths of kindness. – Lao Tzu
