It was back to school again at the University of Maryland….but at a brand new school! Amidst the excitement of moving into our new home, the fall semester was still as busy as ever under the direction of our new chapter President, David Bonebreak. All were eager to meet and greet the freshman, and in mid-September, active members gathered to recruit fresh faces for a Happy Hour at our local Pickles Pub. The rush event was a success: the Alpha Chapter acquired 45 new members at our annual Induction Ceremony on October 30, 2006. As per tradition, the event was held at Davidge Hall, the oldest medical facility in the country continuously used for medical education.

Our newly initiated freshmen members sit pretty during their Induction Ceremony on October 30

Deputy councilor Dr. Werner Seibel invited members to his house for the annual Fall BBQ in early October. As always, it was a wonderful time! Everyone brought a little something, and Dr. Seibel showed off his renowned grilling skills while members relaxed and enjoyed the enormous spread of food and drinks. A big “THANK YOU” goes out to both Dr. and Mrs. Seibel for their hospitality.

Dr. Seibel and his wife extended their hospitality to this relaxed-looking group of Alpha chapter members at the Fall BBQ

Deputy Councilor Dr. Wener Seibel sits at the head of the
picnic table during the Fall BBQ at his home

Junior Julia Burchett was able to inspire 28 members and non-members alike to participate in Baltimore’s 5K Walk/Run for the Cure on October 21. The race is an annual event established to raise money for Breast Cancer Awareness, and all proceeds benefit the Susan G. Komen Foundation. To show our support, members sold pink ribbons for $1.00 and wore them with pride the week before the race. In the end, we raised an impressive $1850 and had a great workout. Way to go, team!

Enthusiastic Allpha members were up before dawn to join Baltimore in Racing for the Cure. The money we raised was donate to the Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

Alpha members kicked off their study shoes and jumped into their Halloween gear for our Fall Theme Party on October 26. The theme this year? The unlikely combination of “80’s/Western!” Over 150 students arrived at Drifters Bar and Grill in outfits that can only be described as head-turning, and enjoyed a memorable night with friends out on the town.

Senior Eddie Yates, Alumni and past-President Travis Weeks, and current President David Bonebreak break out the
"80's and Western" clothes at the annual Fall Theme Party

The Fall Theme Party inspired freshmen Liz Vivona,
Kelly Slichter, and Andrew Pakchoian to show off their creative sides at Drifters Pub

Fundraisers were definitely success stories this fall. Alpha members took charge and sold over 200 Halloween candygrams, which were distributed to classmates and professors alike on October 31. Led by Chad Anzillotti (’08), this event required the help of many people to sell, collect, bag and deliver the treats. As always, half of the proceeds went to Quest for Care, a student-run charity that provides a means to get dental care to those in need. In addition, BCDS students are currently selling polo shirts to raise funds; the trés chic shirts sport the Psi Omega logo with the Alpha Chapter name. Last but not least, our Chapter sponsored someone from the local Salvation Army tree as a means to spread a little holiday cheer.

The DC Alumni Chapter was gracious enough to extend an invitation to attend a dinner lecture with them in late November. In the name of learning, fourteen members hopped in their cars and traveled down to Chevy Chase, MD to listen to Dr. Martin Abel speak about Lumineers. It was a wonderful opportunity to interact with fellow alumni, make new contacts, and enjoy the hearty feast provided by Alfio’s La Trattoria Restaurant. And of course, learn a little dentistry at the same time! Many thanks to the DC Alumni Chapter for including us.

Happy travelers were full after a dinner meeting with the DC Alumni Chapter in November. Pictured second from the left
is the DC Alumni Chapter President, Christopher Liang.

We have a history of reaching out to some of the younger members of the Baltimore community by spending some time at local elementary and middle schools. This year was no exception. Under the organization of Holly Thomas (’07), two different school visits were arranged at Federal Hill Elementary School. Members interact with over 100 pre-K and kindergarten children and taught them the proper way to brush and care for their teeth. Tubes of toothpaste and toothbrushes were handed out to all the children that participated. The kids were very enthusiastic, and we hope they came away from the experience with a more positive outlook on dentistry.

Our upcoming event calendar is officially full, and we are looking forward to a fun and productive spring. Within the next few weeks, Dr. Thomas Daley and his wife will start off the semester with their annual Holiday / New Year Party. In addition, we are looking forward to our annual Post-Gross Party and more Habitat for Humanity events, among many other things. Happy New Year and best wishes for Alpha members at BCDS!

Laura Vivier (’07), Editor

1040 Savannah Highway
Charleston, SC 29407

Telephone: (843) 556-0573
Fax: (843) 556-6311