Barack Obama's Democratic Nominee Acceptance Speech

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DenMat Remedent Press Release - Lumineers purchases rights to GlamSmile

         

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

CONTACT:

 

For Remedent, Inc.                                                      For Den-Mat Holdings, LLC

Guy De Vreese, Chairman                                              Mike Beyer, Sam Brown Inc.

Remedent, Inc.                                                            773-463-4211

32 9 32170 80                                                                beyer@sambrown.com

GuyDV@remedent.be

                                                                          

Stephen D. Axelrod, CFA (Investors)

Alisa Steinberg (Media)

Wolfe Axelrod Weinberger Associates, LLC

212-370-4500

steve@wolfeaxelrod.com

alisa@wolfeaxelrod.com

 

 

REMEDENT, INC. AND DEN-MAT HOLDINGS, LLC

SIGN COLLABORATION AND INTERNATIONAL DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT

 

- Den-Mat Acquires Exclusive Rights to Glamsmile™ Technology Platform to Further Enhance Lumineers® and Drive New Product Development; Remedent Expands Marketing Opportunities with Agreement -

 

Deurle, Belgium and Santa Maria, CA – August 25, 2008 -- Two leaders in cosmetic dentistry, Remedent, Inc. (OTCBB: REMI) and Den-Mat Holdings, LLC, announced today that Den-Mat has obtained the exclusive rights to manufacture, market and distribute Remedent’s innovative GlamSmile™ products and technologies in North America and numerous international markets.

 

Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

 

Den-Mat, the maker of the revolutionary LUMINEERS® BY CERINATE® porcelain veneer laminates, will acquire the rights to Remedent’s single-motion veneer placement tray technology, proprietary veneer fabrication technique, and computer imaging design and digital preview technology.  Integrating this technology will enable Den-Mat to launch LumiTray™, a novel, one tray process for easy and efficient placement of Lumineers. 

 

“This important agreement offers Den-Mat access to Remedent’s next generation technology that will further enhance the creation, precision and placement of our high quality Lumineers and new cutting edge products for an improved cosmetic dentistry experience for both professionals and consumers,” said Nicholas L. Teti, Jr., Chief Executive Officer of Den-Mat Holdings LLC.  “This strategic partnership strengthens Den-Mat as a leader in aesthetic dentistry now and accelerates the Company into the future. We will integrate this new digital process technology into our systems.”

 

Den-Mat will unveil the innovative LumiTray™ technology to dental professionals at Destination Education November 7 – 9, 2008 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

 

Guy De Vreese, Chairman of Remedent, noted, “By combining GlamSmile™ and Lumineers with Den-Mat’s substantial customer base and marketing reach, our companies now have a unique opportunity to significantly expand acceptance of our joint veneer technologies in the global dental market.  Lumineers is the recognized leader in dental veneers and this strategic alliance with Den-Mat greatly magnifies our ability to penetrate the US dental market, the world’s number one dental environment, with our tray delivery system and 3D modeling software for designing and manufacturing veneers.”

 

DLJ Merchant Banking Partners, a private equity investment affiliate of Credit Suisse and owner of Den-Mat Holdings, LLC was instrumental in bringing this agreement to a successful conclusion.

 

“Den-Mat’s integration of this proprietary technology will further enhance its aesthetic offerings and improve customer ease of use and satisfaction,” said Ed Johnson, Managing Director and Partner, DLJ Merchant Banking Partners.  “We are very excited about the great potential from this transaction for both Den-Mat and Remedent.”

 

About Remedent 

 

Remedent, Inc. develops, manufactures and markets oral care and cosmetic dentistry products with distribution in more than 35 countries. Based in Deurle, Belgium and El Segundo, CA, Remedent serves both the professional dental community and the consumer over-the-counter market. Visit www.remedent.com  for further information. 

 

GlamSmile is a revolutionary cosmetic dental system that substantially expands the consumer and professional dental market for veneers. To produce the veneers, Remedent utilizes high-tech scanning, CAD/CAM design technology, and a proprietary fabrication technique. The veneers are delivered to a dentist already prepared for a simple, single-motion veneer placement. This patent-pending painless delivery system not only dramatically lowers the dentist's cost of installation, but also significantly reduces the amount of time patients spend in the dental chair. The result is unprecedented pricing for veneers which previously were only within the reach of affluent patients.  

 

About Den-Mat Holdings, LLC

 

California-based Den-Mat Holdings, LLC is a leading manufacturer and marketer of advanced cosmetic and restorative dental products and laboratory services that allow a dentist to preserve, restore and enhance their patient’s teeth typically without the requirement for anesthesia, extensive cutting, drilling and tooth removal.  This revolutionary type of dentistry not only focuses on superior esthetic results, but on patient comfort and convenience as well.

 

Den-Mat’s revolutionary LUMINEERS® BY CERINATE® are porcelain veneers that offer a painless way to a permanently whiter and perfectly aligned smile. LUMINEERS are the only porcelain laminates that are strong, reversible, and have a proven record of over 20 years of clinical success.  The dentist applies these contact lens-thin veneers to teeth without the need for the shaving and grinding down of sensitive tooth structure that is common with traditional veneers.

 

Den-Mat currently has approximately 700 employees and manufactures a complete line of more than 200 cosmetic and restorative formulations.  The company services approximately 40,000 dentists worldwide, and offers variety of educational seminars and marketing support services for dentists.  For additional information, please visit www.denmat.com.

 

About Credit Suisse

 

As one of the world's leading banks, Credit Suisse provides its clients with investment banking, private banking and asset management services worldwide.  Credit Suisse offers advisory services, comprehensive solutions and innovative products to companies, institutional clients and high-net worth private clients globally, as well as retail clients in Switzerland.  Credit Suisse is active in over 50 countries and employs approximately 40,000 people.  Credit Suisse's parent company, Credit Suisse Group, is a leading global financial services company headquartered in Zurich. Credit Suisse Group's registered shares (CSGN) are listed in Switzerland and, in the form of American Depositary Shares (CS), in New York.  Further information about Credit Suisse can be found at www.creditsuisse.com.

 

# # #

SIRIUS AND XM COMPLETE MERGER

SIRIUS AND XM COMPLETE MERGER

SIRIUS XM Radio Chosen as New Corporate Name

Combined Company Has Over 18.5 Million Subscribers, Annualized Second Quarter Revenue Exceeding $2.4 Billion

Company to Offer Consumers Best of Both Services, While Maximizing Significant Efficiencies

SIRIUS XM Reiterates Financial Guidance; Expects 2009 Synergies of $400 million and 2009 Adjusted EBITDA of over $300 Million

NEW YORK, NY – July 29, 2008 –SIRIUS Satellite Radio (NASDAQ: SIRI) and XM Satellite Radio today announced that they have completed their merger, resulting in the nation's premier radio company. The new company plans to change its corporate name to Sirius XM Radio Inc. The combined company's stock will continue to be traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol "SIRI".

SIRIUS XM Radio begins day one with over 18.5 million subscribers, making it the second-largest radio company, based upon revenue, in the country; and, based upon subscribers, the second largest subscription media business in the U.S. With under 10% penetration of the home and car market, the opportunity for continued growth is significant.

"I am delighted to announce the completion of this exciting merger between SIRIUS and XM," said Mel Karmazin, CEO of SIRIUS XM Radio. "We have worked diligently to close this transaction and we look forward to integrating our best-in-class management teams and operations so we can begin delivering on our promise of more choices and lower prices for subscribers."

"Every one of our constituencies is a winner. Combined, SIRIUS XM Radio will deliver superior value to our shareholders. By offering more compelling packages and the best content in audio entertainment, we are well positioned for increased subscriber growth. Our laser focus on subscribers will continue and listeners can be assured that there will be no disruption in service. We also believe that the completion of the merger will eliminate any confusion that has been lingering in the marketplace," added Karmazin.

XM shareholders will receive 4.6 shares of SIRIUS common stock for each share of XM.

Competitive New Options for Consumers

SIRIUS XM Radio broadcasts more than 300 channels of programming, including exclusive radio offerings from Howard Stern, Oprah, Opie & Anthony and Martha Stewart, among others. SIRIUS XM Radio will offer these expanded options to consumers through arrangements with the world's leading automakers and its relationships with nationwide retailers.

As a result of the merger, SIRIUS XM Radio will also be able to offer consumers new packages in audio entertainment, including the first-ever a la carte programming option in subscription media. In addition to two a la carte options, the new packages will include: "Best of Both," giving subscribers the option to access certain programming from the other network; discounted Family Friendly packages; and tailored packages including "Mostly Music" and "News, Talk and Sports." The first of the new packages will be available in the early Fall.

"One of the most exciting benefits of this transaction is the ability to offer subscribers the option of expanding their subscriptions to include the Best of Both services. Given the respective popularity of exclusive programming on both SIRIUS and XM, we expect many subscribers will upgrade their current subscription," said Karmazin.

"The upside potential for both consumers and shareholders is huge. Consumers have the ease of adding premier programming without purchasing a new device. For shareholders, this kind of organic growth is a key part of the company's future and the success we expect to see," said Karmazin.

As promised when the merger was first announced, existing radios will continue to work and every subscriber has the option of maintaining their current service package.

Benefits for Shareholders Begin Immediately, Integration Already Under Way

SIRIUS XM Radio expects to begin realizing the synergies expected from this transaction immediately.

"In addition to realizing significant potential revenue growth, the management team will move quickly to capitalize on the synergies that many analysts have predicted for this combination. We expect to begin achieving those synergies without sacrificing any of the world-class programming and marketing we are known for," said Karmazin.

The company today also reiterated guidance for the combined SIRIUS XM Radio. Based upon a preliminary analysis, the combined company expects to realize total synergies, net of the costs to achieve such synergies, of approximately $400 million in 2009; to post adjusted EBITDA exceeding $300 million in 2009; and to achieve positive free cash flow, before satellite capital expenditures, for the full year 2009. The company also expects that both synergies and adjusted EBITDA will continue growing beyond 2009.

"We have all the tools necessary to begin executing as a combined company with high aspirations for subscriber growth and greater financial performance in part from the significant synergies that we begin realizing literally today – on Day One. We are moving quickly to integrate the operations," said Karmazin.

The corporate headquarters will be located in New York, NY and XM Satellite Radio, the company's wholly-owned subsidiary, will remain headquartered in Washington, DC.

Effective after the close of the market yesterday, trading in XMSR common stock on the Nasdaq Global Select Market ceased.

About SIRIUS XM Radio

SIRIUS XM Radio is America's satellite radio company delivering the "The Best Radio on Radio" to more than 18 million subscribers, including 100% commercial free music, and premier sports, news, talk, entertainment, traffic and weather.

SIRIUS XM Radio has exclusive content relationships with an array of personalities and artists, including Howard Stern, Oprah, Martha Stewart, Jimmy Buffett, Elvis, Jamie Foxx, Barbara Walters, Frank Sinatra, Opie & Anthony, The Grateful Dead, Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Tom Petty, and Bob Edwards. SIRIUS XM Radio is the leader in sports programming as the Official Satellite Radio Partner of the NFL, Major League Baseball, NASCAR, NHL, and PGA, and broadcasts major college sports.

SIRIUS XM Radio has exclusive arrangements with every major automaker. SIRIUS XM Radio products are available at shop.sirius.com and shop.xmradio.com, and at retail locations nationwide, including Best Buy, Circuit City, RadioShack, Target, Sam's Club, and Wal-Mart.

SIRIUS XM Radio also offers SIRIUS Backseat TV, the first ever live in-vehicle rear seat entertainment featuring Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network; XM NavTraffic service for GPS navigation systems delivers real-time traffic information, including accidents and road construction, for more than 80 North American markets.

The guidance contained herein are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by us when taken as a whole, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control. In addition, the guidance is based upon specific assumptions with respect to future business conditions, some or all of which will change. The guidance, like any forecast, is necessarily speculative in nature and it can be expected that the assumptions upon which the guidance is based will not prove to be valid or will vary from actual results. Actual results will vary from the guidance and the variations may be material. Consequently, the guidance should not be regarded as a representation by SIRIUS or any other person that the synergies, adjusted EBITDA and free cash flow will actually be achieved. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on this information.

This communication contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements about the benefits of the business combination transaction involving Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. and XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc., including potential synergies and cost savings and the timing thereof, future financial and operating results, the combined company's plans, objectives, expectations and intentions with respect to future operations, products and services; and other statements identified by words such as "anticipate," "believe," "plan," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "will," "should," "may," or words of similar meaning. Such forward-looking statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of SIRIUS' and XM's management and are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are difficult to predict and generally beyond the control of SIRIUS and XM. Actual results may differ materially from the results anticipated in these forward-looking statements.

The following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from the anticipated results or other expectations expressed in the forward-looking statement: general business and economic conditions; the performance of financial markets and interest rates; the ability to obtain governmental approvals of the transaction on a timely basis; the failure to realize synergies and cost-savings from the transaction or delay in realization thereof; the businesses of SIRIUS and XM may not be combined successfully, or such combination may take longer, be more difficult, time-consuming or costly to accomplish than expected; and operating costs and business disruption following the merger, including adverse effects on employee retention and on our business relationships with third parties, including manufacturers of radios, retailers, automakers and programming providers. Additional factors that could cause SIRIUS' and XM's results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in SIRIUS' and XM's Annual Reports on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, which are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and available at the SEC's Internet site (http://www.sec.gov). The information set forth herein speaks only as of the date hereof, and SIRIUS and XM disclaim any intention or obligation to update any forward looking statements as a result of developments occurring after the date of this communication.

G-SIRI

Contacts for SIRIUS XM Radio:

Media Relations

Patrick Reilly
212-901-6646
PReilly@siriusradio.com

Kelly Sullivan
Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher
212-355-4449
ksullivan@joelefrank.com

Nathaniel Brown
212-708-6170
Nathaniel.Brown@xmradio.com

Chance Patterson
202-380-4318
Chance.Patterson@xmradio.com

Investor Relations

Paul Blalock
212-584-5174
PBlalock@siriusradio.com

Hooper Stevens
212-901-6718
HStevens@siriusradio.com

Joe Wilkinson
202-380-4008
Joe.Wilkinson@xmradio.com

Richard Sloane
202-380-1439
richard.sloane@xmradio.com

Dr. Hugh Flax - The Magic of Laser Assisted Cosmetic Dentistry at ACE 2008 Symposium on Esthetic Dentistry

From November 5-8, 2008, the ACE 2008 Symposium on Esthetic Dentistry being held at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa in Bonita Springs, Florida will feature many excellent presentations.

Here's one of them:

 

 

Dr. Hugh Flax - The Magic of Laser Assisted Cosmetic Dentistry (DE1108D) Saturday November 8, 2008 ~ 10am - Noon

About the Program: The Magic of Laser Assisted Cosmetic Dentistry
Laser technology has become a rising star in the evolution of appearance enhancements. Dentistry has seen a huge breakthrough with the introduction of a combination hard-soft tissue Erbium-YSGG wavelength. Among the many benefits of less invasive care and quicker healing responses, Dr. Flax has helped pioneer the “closed flap technique” that puts control of gingival and osseous contours into the hands of the cosmetic restorative dentist. Improved artistry has greatly reduced treatment times, enhanced income, and allowed patient satisfaction to soar better than ever.

Learning Objectives:

1. Find out protocols which are esthetically beautiful and biologically healthy.
2. See the simple techniques that assure success for you and your patients.
3. Discover a guaranteed way to help your cases to finish at least 2 months earlier. About the Speaker: Drive, determination, dedication.

Dr. Hugh Flax, internationally known and accredited cosmetic dentist in Atlanta, brings new meaning to the usual buzzwords. With all hype aside, Dr. Flax simply loves cosmetic dentistry. Since graduating with honors from Emory University Dental School in 1983, achieving perfection has been his main purpose in life. He has since graduation attended and participated in the industry’s best continuing education courses and now teaches them himself. Dr. Flax built his Atlanta Cosmetic Dentistry Spa practice in 1987 with perfection in mind, bringing together health, function, and natural beauty -- transforming the lives of his patients. Flax was the fourth cosmetic dentist in Georgia to be accredited with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

TO REGISTER FOR THE ACE 2008 SYMPOSIUM ON ESTHETIC DENTISTRY PLEASE CALL 800-701-6223 OR VISIT WWW.ACEBONITASPRINGS2008.COM.

 

Am I a bad employer for this?

Today's employer challenge...
 
One of my dental assistants recently bought a puppy. He is a cute dog and I like dogs...have one of my own...and I spent last night (at the end of the work day) helping her with instructions on how to care for the dog and train him to go potty, eat, sleep, etc.
 
Last night the puppy got sick and she needs to bring him to the veterinarian. So she scheduled the appointment for today at 9:30am. This morning when I arrived at the office there is the puppy, his crate, and a bunch of doggy toys in the office. All of my team members are huddled around the dog saying stuff like, "Oh...he's soooooo cute!" and "Oh...he just sneezed...the poor thing...he's so sick!" and "Can I hold him next?", you know...stuff the people usually do when they see a cute puppy. I acknowledge the fact that he's a cute dog and ask why he's in the office. She tells me that he's sick and needs to go to the vet. So, I ask to speak to her in private...
 
So...what's the employer challenge? Well, for one thing, CT state law will not allow animals in a medical/dental facility for humans (other than aquarium fish) and I politely asked her to remove the puppy from the office and to spend time caring for him at home until his veterinarian appointment was over. If she was still available to work later, following the vet appointment, she could return. Her response was that she couldn't afford to take the time off and she needed the hours. My response was, I respect the fact that you need to get your hours in and since we end at 2pm today you could have scheduled the vet appointment later in the day. Well...the horror! How dare I suggest that! Don't I have a heart? I'm just a mean old man who doesn't care about anything or anyone but the office!!!
 
So now I'm the mean old dentist who doesn't care about his team or their pets or anything...and the majority of the team is giving me dagger looks this morning!!!
 
WTF
 
Will the brighter minds on the list please enlighten me as to how I could have handled this situation better?
 
Thank you.

Debra Grant, RDH - The Power RDH at ACE 2008 Symposium on Esthetic Dentistry

From November 5-8, 2008, the ACE 2008 Symposium on Esthetic Dentistry being held at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa in Bonita Springs, Florida will feature many excellent presentations.

Here's one of them:

 

Debra Grant, RDH - The Power RDH (HY1106A)

About the Program: The Power RDH continues to be a popular course for hygienists that want more than a ‘nine to five’ job. The cause of burnout is examined and solutions are discussed. Treating the whole body is a way for hygienists to expand within their own scope of practice. Thyroid screening, oral cancer, alternative medicine, “green” products, the oral-systemic link; How do we fit it all into one prophy and give our patient the quality care they deserve? The Power RDH will learn how to increase the production in the dental hygiene department and in turn learn how to review, evaluate and negotiate this win/win arrangement.

Learning Objectives:

1. Learn the value of an RDH and how to apply your value through practice building skills that will benefit you, your patients and the dentist you work with.
2. Increase your knowledge in state of the art products and procedures for a higher level of hygiene.
3. Empower the Dental Hygienist to a higher level of confidence.

About the Speaker: Debra Grant, RDH, CA continually challenges the profession of dental hygiene through her innovative company, Oraspa™, Inc., the only Dental Spa Consultancy in the world. Debra has been appointed as a member of the Illinois State Board of Dentistry in 2004-2008. Ms. Grant has been an active clinical dental hygienist for 32 years. She has practiced in both Illinois and Florida. She is a past president of the Illinois Dental Hygienists’ Association and active in the American Dental Hygienists’ Association. Debra has held many leadership positions at the state, local and national level.

TO REGISTER FOR THE ACE 2008 SYMPOSIUM ON ESTHETIC DENTISTRY PLEASE CALL 800-701-6223 OR VISIT WWW.ACEBONITASPRINGS2008.COM.

 

Mr. Steve Anderson - Why Didn't They Tell Us That? at ACE Bonita Springs 2008

From November 5-8, 2008, the ACE 2008 Symposium on Esthetic Dentistry being held at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa in Bonita Springs, Florida will feature many excellent presentations. Here's one of them:

 

Mr. Steve Anderson - Why Didn't They Tell Us That? (TE1106A)

About the Program: Why didn't they tell us that?
New discoveries about unspoken patient expectations and what the entire team can do to increase case acceptance, patient loyalty, and word-of-mouth TODAY. Discover the most overlooked patient needs, wants and desires. Recent scientific survey results reveal unspoken expectations patients have today that they may be keeping hidden from you. Are you really meeting your patients' expectations? What are they thinking but not saying?

Discover…

1. The ONE topic most new patients expect you to cover that is overlooked by 49% of dental teams.
2. Don't say this! But almost everyone does. Patients hate it.
3. Don't do this. But everyone does. Patients resent it.
4. "Why didn't you tell me this?" Most don't.

Patients are dying to know it. And much, much more. The consumer market is changing. Discover where they are going. Raise your case acceptance. Catapult your market presence. Discover the things other practices in town may never know that patients really want and be THE practice to deliver it.

About the Speaker: For nearly 20 years, Steven J. Anderson has educated and entertained thousands of dentists and team members at hundreds of seminars and every major dental meeting in North America. He is the founder of the Total Patient Service Institute, Crown Council and the Smiles for Life Foundation. Don't miss a message every dentist and team should hear as you laugh, learn and grow personally and professionally with one of dentistry's most entertaining and insightful presenters.

TO REGISTER FOR THE ACE 2008 SYMPOSIUM ON ESTHETIC DENTISTRY PLEASE CALL 800-701-6223 OR VISIT WWW.ACEBONITASPRINGS2008.COM.

--
--
Dr. Mike Maroon
Founder & Fellow Academy of Comprehensive Esthetics

ACE 2008 Symposium on Esthetic Dentistry ~ Nov 5-8, 2008 ~ Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa ~ Bonita Springs, FL

Learn more about upcoming events at www.ACEsthetics.com or call 800.701.6223

Statement from Dan Fischer for Public Release in Response to Personal Allegations

Statement from Dan Fischer for Public Release in Response to Personal Allegations

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact
Ida Baghoomian, Public Relations Manager (801) 553-4243 ida.baghoomian@ultradent.com

SOUTH JORDAN, Utah, August 1, 2008 - I woke up this morning to read a statement in The Salt Lake Tribune, saying that I have been trying to hide my life. Anyone who knows me knows that nothing could be further from the truth. It is evident that my work with the Lost Boys and my Congressional testimony last week has made the FLDS sect pretty angry, enough so that they would attack me.

The disjointed, spurious allegations against me seem to fall into the following areas:
1. That I did not support my children.
2. That my first two wives and I separated because I was abusive.
3. That I engaged in abusive discipline of my children.
4. That I abandoned my children, throwing them out of my house.

At the outset, it is important to keep in mind that the FLDS are trying to use me as a distraction to deflect attention from themselves. FLDS are taught from an early age that lying to protect the "Prophet" and the "Church" is perfectly acceptable and even desirable. However, their skillful distortions, lies and half-truths simply will not work.

As some of you know, I was married to three women by the FLDS leader in my younger years. The second one married to me, Leenie, has been my wife for some time now. We had our 35th wedding anniversary just two weeks ago.

NON-SUPPORT ALLEGATIONS
I have 16 children and anyone who knows me knows that I support my family. The allegations of non-support concern two of my children by my third wife Marcia, whom I have not supported, but not for the lack of trying. I was cut off from all communication with them. I was never asked for support, and indeed, when I did try to help them my help was spurned.

SEPARATION AND DIVORCE FROM MY FIRST AND THIRD WIVES
The separation and ultimate divorce from my first and third wives had to do with personal issues, mostly related to the dynamics of living a FLDS polygamous life, and not with spurious claims of abuse. For example, my third wife was upset with me because for many years I had no interest in having a conjugal relationship with her. Discussion of personal dynamics and things of this nature simply have no place in the public conversation and I simply do not intend to address them.

WITH REGARD TO ALLEGATIONS OF ABUSE OF MY WIVES
I have already indicated that a FLDS plural household is generally one that breeds many conflicts and indeed, "continual fighting." And, yes, sometimes that meant physical confrontations on all sides. But to portray a picture that tries to paint me as a "wife-beater" is wrong. It is character assassination, and it is untrue.

ALLEGATIONS OF ABUSIVE DISCIPLINE OF MY CHILDREN
To try and turn normative corporal discipline, common 20-30 years ago into child abuse is something that is just ludicrous. Sure I spanked my kids. This was not unusual inside and outside of FLDS in the 1970s. Furthermore, to imply that I tried to suffocate my children to keep them quiet is beyond goofy. It is a lie, a damnable lie. Interestingly, I am alleged to have done this in public, in church. If this were true (and it is not) then where were the other parents to stop this alleged abuse and protect the children?

ALLEGATIONS THAT I EVICTED MY OWN CHILDREN
The children who I allegedly threw out of my house left because they would not conform to the FLDS religious requirements. They were 18 or older. Their leaving the house was simply a reality of the FLDS life and teachings. I might add that one of those children who left is my daughter Jaleena, who is now a dentist and, I am proud to say, my "boss" in a dental practice.

BOTTOM LINE
I can't say that I've been a perfect parent. I've often said "What I wouldn't give if I could start over with my older children with what I know now." That said, it is interesting that the charges of FLDS "affidavits" trying to malign me really amount to charging me with living an FLDS lifestyle and conducting myself in accordance with the teaching of the leadership and the typical day-to-day life of FLDS adherents. On this count, I certainly was guilty as charged. Today, I am forever grateful that my eyes were opened to a life outside of the FLDS--one that has freedom, one that is conducive to a constructive husband-wife and family relationships, and one that does not compel an "us against them mentality" that is used to justify lying.

I've often said that I feel like a human who has lived three distinctly different lives--my formative life in FLDS, my life as a polygamous husband in FLDS and the life of freedom after leaving FLDS. We all know the challenges that can occur in single marriage relationships, where adults seek to discover each other through a quality courtship experience. Imagine the framework for discord when a society takes three women, even women who have their own incompatibilities with each other, and requires, without their having a choice, that they all be married to the one man under one roof and raise a family in such environment. That is not a logical way to set the stage for peace and tranquility in the family. This is what happened to me. And that is not to say that my two former wives didn't have positive qualities and values. It simply is a goofy way to have to live, and one that breeds friction.

I can say that my experiences, even difficult ones, living in the FLDS society have given me insights and the capability of understanding and helping those young boys who have been expelled by FLDS or who left of their own accord. I can also say that my experiences have enabled me to share what I believe are important insights to the wrongs and atrocities committed by the leaders of the FLDS society. From this, I believe some good has come from a very difficult time in my life. And my efforts to help children and even others will continue unabated.

Thank you,
Dan Fischer

Dr. Robert Margeas - Everyday Dentistry: More Than Everyday Esthetic Results at ACE Bonita Springs 2008

From November 5-8, 2008, the ACE 2008 Symposium on Esthetic Dentistry being held at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa in Bonita Springs, Florida will feature many excellent presentations. Here's one of them: 

 

Dr. Robert Margeas - Everyday Dentistry: More Than Everyday Esthetic Results (DE1106B)

About the Program: Everyday Dentistry- More Than Everyday Esthetic Results
This lecture is designed for today's esthetically minded, real world dentist and staff. Dr. Margeas will review direct and indirect clinical cases, step-by-step. These include: direct composite resins, simplified implant techniques with immediate extraction, placement, and provisionalization using the patient's extracted tooth on abutments. Innovative techniques will be shown that can be incorporated into your practice immediately.

Learning Objectives:

1. You will learn how to properly layer and finish composite resins that mimic nature
2. Provisionalize immediately following implant placement
3. Understand the diagnostic keys for success when doing immediate implants

About the Speaker: Dr. Robert Margeas maintains a full-time private practice focusing on comprehensive restorative and implant dentistry in Des Moines, Iowa. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Operative Dentistry and is an adjunct professor in the department of Operative Dentistry at the University of Iowa.

TO REGISTER FOR THE ACE 2008 SYMPOSIUM ON ESTHETIC DENTISTRY PLEASE CALL 800-701-6223 OR VISIT WWW.ACEBONITASPRINGS2008.COM.

--
--
Dr. Mike Maroon
Founder & Fellow Academy of Comprehensive Esthetics

ACE 2008 Symposium on Esthetic Dentistry ~ Nov 5-8, 2008 ~ Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa ~ Bonita Springs, FL

Learn more about upcoming events at www.ACEsthetics.com or call 800.701.6223

FREE STUFF! - DentalCompare Newsletters

Hi all…

I want to make you aware of a great resource that I’ve been getting for several months now. It’s the FREE Newsletters from Dental Compare.

In addition to the ACE Email Network, I like Dental Compare’s Newsletters because they’re loaded with lots of great info.

The topics available are……Endodontics, Laser Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry, Implants, Periodontics, Orthodontics, Smile Design/Esthetics, Management & Marketing, Dental Hygiene, Equipment & Operatory Design, Dental Imaging, CAD/CAM and Dental News.

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Thanks and enjoy!

P.S. If you all sign up for these newsletters I get $100 Million Dollars! Mooooohahahahahahahaha! (Ok…I get nothing and like it…but you get lots of great information and maybe you can buy me a drink at the next ACE meeting for sharing this with you…hint/hint) :D

I made a patient cry today and I didn't like it!

Has this ever happened to anyone on the group before...patient is in the chair for some simple restorations and before the procedure we let her know that if anything at all is uncomfortable all she needs to do is raise her hand and we'll stop whatever we're doing and figure out someway around it...Well, all goes well with anesthesia, placement of rubber dam, removal and replacement of old filling with shiny new tooth colored restoration, and preliminary bite adjustment with rubber dam on. When rubber dam is removed and we were doing the final bite adjustment, we had to wrestle the tongue to keep it from getting injured by the handpiece. All of a sudden the patient starts crying. I immediately stop and ask what's wrong and she says that she felt like she was gagging and couldn't breathe. I asked her why she didn't raise her hand and she started sobbing even more! Holy crap...what do I do now?

So...I stop and sit her up and try to be as kind as a 300lb insensitive male dentist can be to a sobbing woman and decide that it's best for me to leave the room for awhile and let my team handle the situation. Naturally, they do...(did you really expect anything different?)...and get her calmed down. So, I politely ask her to please raise her hand when she needs a break or if anything at all troubles her and she says, "Just get it over with!"

I don't think she'll be bringing me any flowers or chocolates anytime soon. :(

What did I do wrong...besides being a man?

Manage your team's energy

From: Dr. June Darling

When I've talked about this to dentists. They feel it's so unfair that they should be the manager of team energy, but here's a good article that may convince you to at least consider your emotions as contagious as work (and everywhere in your life), but especially important to consider if you want energetic, productive workers. j.

 

Manage Your Team's Energy, Not Just the Work

Posted: 13 Aug 2008 11:15 PM CDT

Following is a excerpt from our upcoming book "Profit From the Positive: What Every Business Leader Needs to Know From the New Science of Positive Psychology."

~ Margaret Greenberg (Bio, Articles) and Senia Maymin (Bio, Articles)

Germs and colds aren't the only things we spread in the workplace. Our emotions, both positive and negative, are just as contagious. Have you ever walked into a meeting and felt so much tension that you became tense, too? Conversely, have you ever walked into someone's office and felt so much openness that you started to feel more open and welcoming as well? This spreading of emotions from one person to the next is what psychologists call Social Contagion Theory. Here's how it works.

Human beings are hard-wired to mimic the facial expressions and moods of those we come in contact with. Sigal Barsade, associate management professor at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School, claims we can unconsciously "catch" both good and bad moods. And you can "catch" these emotions in a matter of milliseconds according to Elaine Hatfield, psychology professor at the University of Hawaii and co-author of Emotional Contagion.

Researchers at Uppsala University in Sweden showed people pictures of both happy and angry faces for a fraction of a second and observed how people reacted. When participants looked at pictures of happy faces, their own facial expressions mirrored the picture – they responded with a smile. Similarly when participants viewed pictures of angry faces, they responded with a frown.

According to Hatfield, incremental muscle movements, like the smile or the frown, actually trigger the brain to feel that emotion. For example, when we feel happy our brain sends us a message: smile. But it works the other way, too. When we see someone else smile our brain sends us another message: smile. This very act of smiling sends another message to our brain, telling us to feel happy. So maybe our mothers were really on to something when they told us to quit mopping around and "put on a happy face."

So what does this have to do with managing your team's energy? Your own emotions have more influence over your team's energy level and subsequent productivity than perhaps you realize.

Carlos arrives at the office at 7:45 sharp every day. Two of his employees, Rachel and Mike, like to get in around 7:00 so they can grab a cup of coffee, catch up on emails, and get ready for the day ahead. Every morning they look up from their desks as Carlos walks in. Rachel and Mike have an inside joke:

"We can tell what kind of day it's going to be around here by Carlos' morning expression. If he smiles and says 'good morning' we know it's going to be a good day, and we can get on with our work. If his head is down and doesn't even acknowledge us, we know it's going to be a bad day and we better be ready to jump at a moment's notice. When our teammates arrive around 8:00, they stop by our desks and ask, 'So what kind of day is it going to be?' and they're not talking about the weather."

Researchers at the University of Michigan found that when business leaders were in a good mood, their team members experienced more positive and fewer negative moods. Additionally, if the boss is in a good mood, the team finds it much easier to accomplish their tasks. Remember if you manage or lead others, your moods are even more contagious! Think of it this way: a manager's negative moods are like spreading a cold, maybe even a flu, in the office. Do you really want people at work feeling lousy and having declining productivity? Or do you want to pay attention to your non-verbal behavior, and be aware of how people "catch" your emotions?

 

June Darling, Ph.D
Executive Coach and Consultant
for Maverick-Minded Professionals
www.summitgroupresources.com
providing the resources to bring out the best in you and your business

"If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader." John Quincy Adams

ACE 2008 Symposium on Esthetic Dentistry

From November 5-8, 2008, the ACE 2008 Symposium on Esthetic Dentistry being held at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa in Bonita Springs, Florida will feature many excellent presentations. Here's one of them:

Dr. Mark Murphy - Implant Overdenture Hands on (DE1107B) - Wednesday November 5, 2008 (sponsored by Sterngold)

About the Program: Topics Covered will include Mini Implants, Flap Design Technique, Attachment Pickup Procedure, Punch Technique for Implant Placement, Angle Correction technique, CT Scan Technology, Increasing Practice Revenue and Marketing to the Consumer

Educational Objectives:

1. The course is designed to give the participants confidence in planning, coordinating and restoring simple to medium complexity implant overdenture cases.
2. Learn how to increase edentulous patient satisfaction by providing esthetically pleasing, functional and economical overdenture solutions.
3. Learn how to reduce complications associated with malpositioned implants incorporating CT Scan technology for accurate implant placement and time savings
   

About the Speaker: Dr. Mark Murphy is a featured presenter for National Dental Network and the National Lab Network, and practices general dentistry part time in Rochester, Michigan. Mark graduated from UDM School of Dentistry in 1981 and continued teaching Anatomy and Crown and Bridge part time for several years. He has served on the Visiting Faculty of The Pankey Institute for Advanced Dental Education since 1991 and on its Board of Directors and Trustees until taking a position as Director of Professional Relations during 2006. Mark has lectured throughout North America on Practice Management, The Philosophy of Dental Practice, Communication, Quality Issues facing Dental Practices and Labs Today, Occlusion, TMD, and Esthetics.

TO REGISTER FOR THE ACE 2008 SYMPOSIUM ON ESTHETIC DENTISTRY PLEASE CALL 800-701-6223 OR VISIT WWW.ACEBONITASPRINGS2008.COM.

Sybron acquires Pentron Corporation Securing Rights to Resilon Technology

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—August 5, 2008

Sybron Dental Specialties Acquires Pentron Corporation
Securing Rights to Resilon Technology

ORANGE, CA – August 5, 2008 – Sybron Dental Specialties, Inc. announced today the addition of the Pentron brands to its corporate portfolio through the purchase of all the outstanding stock of Pentron Corporation. Daniel Even, Danaher Group Executive/President of Sybron Dental Specialties (SDS), said, “We are very enthusiastic about adding the Pentron brands to our family of companies. The crown jewel of Pentron is Resilon^®, a synthetic alternative to gutta percha, which has demonstrated through clinical review and scientific investigation to be superior to gutta percha.” Mr. Even noted that Resilon-based endodontic filling materials bond to the canal wall and minimize leakage, thereby reducing the chances of a failed root canal.

Pentron’s Resilon products will be distributed via the SybronEndo distribution channel while the balance of the Pentron brands will continue to be distributed via their current channel. Pentron customers should continue to secure products through their preferred source.

For any questions regarding this press release, call 714.516.7959.

 

First Annual Scoot tour of Southern New England!

I uploaded some photos of the First Scoot Tour of Southern New England hosted by Vespa Hartford. http://www.VespaHartford.com

You can view the entire album online at http://s513.photobucket.com/albums/t337/drmikemaroon/Scoot%20Tour%202008/?albumview=grid


All lined up and ready to roll!


Michelle gives the signal that she's ready to go!


All Pat needs is a coke bottle, some dental floss and an old napkin and he can make an atomic bomb, or change oil, whichever he feels like doing at the time...kind of like MacGuyver!


Howie helps by siphoning oil out of Michelle's bike to get her back on the road while some patient fellow scooterists watch and say to themselves, "I'm glad it's not my bike!"


Some Suzuki Bergman 400s made the trip...


Everyone enjoys when someone elses bike breaks down!


It's a good time for a chat...and to check out the BIG RUCKUS!


We had a nice group for this ride.


Nice shot of a Vespa GTS250ie and a Kymco People 200


Some more scoots...Doug's suped up orange ET4 is in the front.


STELLA'S


Leader of the Vesperados!


We got caught in a downpour and everyone tries to hide under the gas station canopy.


Enjoying lunch (and some dry time) in Bennington, VT.


Enjoying lunch (and some dry time) in Bennington, VT.

Scooters Rule!

I love this Italian video showcasing vintage scooters enjoying life! Enjoy!

Toyota Targets Segway With Winglet Personal Transportation

Tokyo — TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announced today development of the "Winglet", a personal transport assistance robot ridden in a standing position.

The Winglet—still being refined—is one of TMC's people-assisting Toyota Partner Robots. Designed to contribute to society by helping people enjoy a safe and fully mobile life, the Winglet is a compact next-generation everyday transport tool that offers advanced ease of use and expands the user's range of mobility.

The Winglet consists of a body (with a projected area the size of an A3 sheet of paper) that houses an electric motor, two wheels and internal sensors that constantly monitor the user's position and make adjustments in power to ensure stability. Meanwhile, a unique parallel link mechanism allows the rider to go forward, backward and turn simply by shifting body weight, making the vehicle safe and useful even in tight spaces or crowded environments.

TMC has created three models, the "L", "M" and "S", each having different handling features that allow consumers to select a model appropriate to their needs—from "practical" to "hands-free sporty".

TMC plans various technical and consumer trials to gain feedback during the Winglet's lead-up to practical use. Practical tests of its utility as a mobility tool are planned to begin in Autumn 2008 at Central Japan International Airport (Centrair) near Nagoya, and Laguna Gamagori, a seaside marine resort complex in Aichi Prefecture. Testing of its usefulness in crowded and other conditions, and how non-users react to the device, is to be carried out in 2009 at the Tressa Yokohama shopping complex in Yokohama City.

TMC is pursuing sustainability in research and development, manufacturing and social contribution as part of its concept to realize "sustainability in three areas" and to help contribute to the health and comfort of future society. Toyota Partner Robot development is being carried out with this in mind and applies TMC's approach to monozukuri ("making things"), which includes its mobility, production and other technologies. In a related development, TMC unveiled the "MOBIRO" mobility robot, designed for use in a sitting position, in 2007.

TMC aims to realize the practical use of Toyota Partner Robots in the early 2010s by furthering its robotic development and strengthening collaboration between industry, government and academia.

Visit http://www.toyota.co.jp/en/news/08/0801_1.html for more details.

Adstra Announces 2008 Software Suite

Adstra Announces 2008 Software Suite

 

CHADDS FORD PA:  July 29, 2008- ADSTRA Systems has introduced M5, the 2008 version of its dental software suite, which includes ADSTRA Management™ Practice Management Software, ADSTRA Charting™ Treatment Planning and Charting Software, and ADSTRA popCOM™ Inter-office Communication Software.   Also featured is the ADSTRA CLAIMS PLUS™ free management software program, which allows users to submit billing information electronically to Emdeon (formerly WebMD).  ADSTRA has also revised its website at www.adstra.com, which provides extensive information on each of the company’s software products.

 

The ADSTRA M5 Dental Software Suite provides a wealth of features that can benefit all dental offices, from the solo dental practice to the multi-location dental clinic. ADSTRA software offers a wide range of dental computerization solutions that increase office efficiency, whether the user wants a basic practice management system or desires a complete paperless system. Built-in features lower costs, reduce errors, and accelerate payments.

 

Using the Emdeon ExpressBill Electronic Statements Services Module within the ADSTRA CLAIMS PLUS™ free management software program, users can submit billing information electronically to Emdeon, where invoices and statements are printed and mailed to patients. The Emdeon Expressbill Services Module saves administrative time, reduces storage needs, and minimizes mailing and postage costs. ADSTRA CLAIMS PLUS also includes treatment logs, treatment planning, predeterminations, clinical notes, prescriptions, and orthodontic treatment logs. 

 

ADSTRA SYSTEMS is dedicated to the research, design, development, and implementation of practice management software for dental practices. ADSTRA has a complete suite of dental software, which includes ADSTRA Management™, ADSTRA Charting™, and ADSTRA popCOM™.  For further information call 800-450-0220, or visit www.adstra.com.