Middle Atlantic Society of Orthodontists

Middle Atlantic Society of Orthodontists  

Message from the MASO President

Dr. Larry Wang

WHY?  Since becoming President, I have received many congratulations but I have also been asked "Why?" just as many times.  Looking back at my career, I find that MASO members have been influential in many steps along the way.  When I was looking for a job, it was a MASO member I called for advice.  When I was deciding on a practice, it was a MASO member who gave me insight.   When I was new to the area, it was a MASO member who introduced me to my new colleagues.  When  I was having a tough time in my practice, several MASO members were there for me.  And today, whenever I want to move my practice forward, get advice on a patient or check up on the latest innovations, it's a MASO member that I talk to.   

Whether you are in the middle of your career or just starting, it is important for you as a MASO member to know that there is a group of colleagues out there whose only agenda is to improve yours and my professional life.  We're not talking about volunteers wanting to give back to the profession; we're talking about fellow orthodontists who want to strengthen and preserve the profession, ensuring it's place in the spectrum of dental specialties.  I am very proud to be a member of MASO, I am proud to serve MASO and I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of its leadership and part of this family. 

Now if you're like me, you are already looking ahead to making plans for 2014.  Please keep the following MASO events in mind. The speakers, topics and overall agenda of these meetings were put together to reflect the responses of the membership to a recent survey conducted by the MASO leadership.  Thanks to your feedback, we can mold these meetings into what you want to hear as we continue to move forward embracing change. 

On March 7th 2014, we will be hosting our Spring CE Event at the Hilton in downtown Baltimore.  It will be a joint lecture with Drs. Richard McLaughlin and William Arnett, two outstanding speakers who need no introduction.  This will be their only presentation in the Mid-Atlantic region.  According to Dr. McLaughlin, it is a relatively new lecture that he and Dr. Arnett have put together and in his own words, "You will see some great new material on surgical orthodontics!" 

And there's more….  The 2014 CE event is being co-sponsored by PNC Bank!  We are very fortunate to have Augustine Faucher, Vice President and Senior Macroeconomist for their Financial Services Group as our lunchtime speaker.  He has appeared on many news and financial programs and he will be looking at the national and regional forecast for 2014 and its impact on our professional and personal finances.

And for the Fall...  The 2014 MASO Annual Session is going to be held at beautiful colonial Williamsburg in Virginia.  You could not ask for a more pristine time to be in that part of our country.   My family and I were first-time visitors last year and we were simply amazed by the venue:  the newly renovated hotel, the world-class cuisine, the nationally recognized spa, the boutiques, the restaurants, and the stunning golf courses.  And let's not forget the fascinating historic town and its wealth of new family programs to enhance the experience for you and your children.  Nearby attractions such as Busch Gardens, The Premium Outlets, and Williamsburg Winery provide fun for the whole family.   

 The 2014 Annual Session Planning Committee has been following new developments in the profession to formulate the doctor and staff programs for 2014.  Speakers like Dr. Robert Vanarsdall and Dr. David Hatcher should give you a good idea of the spectrum and quality of presentations you're going to see.

 I wish the MASO membership all the best for 2014. Please do not hesitate to contact me or your state liaison if you feel there is an issue or concern your family of colleagues needs to be aware of or needs to address on behalf of our wonderful specialty.