AGpO MEMBERSHIP NEWS Reap The Benefits of Academy’s Knowledge Base Eugene Boone, DDS AGpO President As I begin my year as the president of the Academy of Gp Orthodontics, I am constantly reminded that our organization is one of helping our fellow Tip-Edgers when the need arises. The use of the online forum in addressing orthodontic issues is one of the most impor-tant benefits of being an Academy member. I know from experience how comforting a guiding word from someone more knowledgeable can be when facing an uncertain situation. It’s inconceivable to me that some-one would want to start an orthodontic career without an infrastructure on which to fall back when the need arises. The Academy has that framework in place and at a very reasonable fee per year. It is my wish that all supporters of our organization will begin this new year by making an effort to reach out to former members so they too can reap the benefits of the Tip-Edge knowl-edge base. I am excited about the upcoming meetings that will be held in great easy to reach locales that will provide ample attractions to keep our families entertained during our learning sessions. There will be a two-day Spring Refresher in Houston, TX on April 17th-18th, 2015, featuring our very own Dr. Ron Austin lecturing on “Practical Tip-Edge”. Those who are new to the Academy and have not had the pleasure of attending one of Dr. Austin’s lectures will be in for a treat as Ron is quite talented concerning Tip-Edge mechanics. Even after 10 years of practicing Tip-Edge orthodontics, I always come away with more insight after attending Ron’s lectures. Further into the year, our Annual Meeting will be held in Memphis, TN from September 10-13th, 2015, at the famous Peabody Hotel. The Peabody, for those who aren’t aware, houses trained ducks who march upon their human trainer’s command. It is a sight to behold for everyone in the family. Situated on the Mississippi River, Memphis is known for its barbeque as well as its music tradition, with Beale Street as a top nighttime attraction. For those so inclined, Tunica, Mississippi has a collection of gambling establishments, only a 45-minute car ride away. Our executive staff has worked very hard to find cities in which our members can not only learn, but have fun during their free time. It is my hope that you will attend these meetings in support of our fine staff; there is always a need for more knowledge and contin-uing education credits as well as leisure from our daily routines. Thanks in advance for attending these upcoming events, and I look forward to getting to know more of you throughout the year! Sincerely, Comprehensive Two-Year Hands-On Course Completion This Fall, nine doctors finished their comprehensive two-year hands-on course in Collierville, TN. All the partici-pating doctors completed the 12 session hands-on course and earned a minimum 155 CDE hours in orthodontics and related topics. Congratulations! Left to right: Dr. Charles Young, Instructor, Dr. Charles Puryear, Megan LeBlanc, Dr. Young’s orthodontic assistant Dr. Pradeep Adatrow, Dr. Janita Siffard, Mandy Hurdle, Dr. Young’s orthodontic assistant, Dr. Casey Iverstine, Dr. Katie Sneed Not Pictured: Dr. Joel Rutledge, Dr, Ken Larkins, Dr. Ryanne Gilliland, Dr. Nathan Robison www.orthodontics.com Winter 2015 43