If you missed the 2009 AAOA Annual Meeting held in New Orleans, here's a report of activities from Sherri Martin, Convention Chairperson. 

The 70th AAOA Annual Convention was held in conjunction with the 114^th AOA Osteopathic Medical Conference and Exposition (OMED 2009), held November 1-5, 2009 in New Orleans, LA.

This year the Convention Committee’s goal was to encourage active participation, to continue simplified delegate registration and have a Committee Recruitment Fair.

Theme: President Linda Adam’s theme for the year was “Healthy Families – Healthy Children”.

Guest Speaker: Paul Ehrmann, D.O. was our guest speaker. He is the creator of the award winning Children’s Health Initiative Program, known as C.H.I.P. He is an active practicing board certified family practitioner, medical director and founder of the Family Health Care Center, a primary care medical group practice located in Royal Oak, Michigan since 1982. His mission is to encourage lifetime wellness through community based grass roots activism promoting healthy living strategies for families in order to achieve healthier communities and a healthier society.

Convention City Project: For twenty years, Covenant House New Orleans has been a safe haven for at-risk and homeless youth ages 16-21 and their children. More than just a shelter, CHNO provides the support and training needed to help our youth become independent, productive members of society. Tulane Medical Center has a free Walk-in adult clinic on their campus. Tulane also runs a Drop-In clinic on site for children and adolescents.

Committee Recruitment Fair: This year’s convention will continue an interactive recruitment fair. The purpose is to educate our delegates about the various committees, recruit committee members, and highlight committee tasks. Similar to a job fair, tables in the back of our HOD meeting will showcase each committee. It is not too late to sign up for a committee.

Sessions of Knowledge: On Tuesday, we held a Sessions of Knowledge. This was an opportunity to possibly gain new knowledge on a variety of subjects. Penny Peska, Michigan delegate, gave a presentation on art in our life. Shawn Martin, AOA Director of Governmental Affairs, spoke on the current healthcare reform and how our members can participate. Ronnie Martin, DO, FACOFP-dist spoke on the Medical Home Program. All of these topics were timely and reminded us that we need balance in our lives. Thank you to our speakers for generously giving of their time.

Intern/Resident Board of Directors Member: The bylaws were submitted and approved to add an Intern/Resident to our Board of Directors. This person will join our SAA representative on the board. We look forward to having representation from this vital group of members.

Join the Conversation: President Heidi Couch presented new opportunities for members to participate in the organization. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, and Flickr.