Message from the president
George F Steinhardt, MD
Jan 31, 2012
Dear AAPU Members,
Wow! Those of you too busy to attend the 25th annual meeting of the American Association of Pediatric Urologists missed out on a wonderful event. David Diamond and his wife Sarita arranged a very productive meeting at the spectacular Los Suenos Resort on the Pacific side of Costa Rica. All who attended were stunned by the natural beauty everywhere apparent. And the meeting was good too! Actually the meeting was very, very good. I am so impressed with the quality of the presentations. The AAPU was founded with the intent to provide a comfortable Pediatric Urology forum with focus on the discussion, not the presentation. Through the years I have always found the high level unmonitored repartee both worthwhile and enjoyable. Clearly the younger members are changing our model in that the presentations are now first rate stimulating even more lively and enjoyable exchange of ideas.
The 26th annual meeting of the AAPU will be held in Jackson Hole, WY. We have chosen the Snake River Lodge in Teton Village as our venue (http:snakeriverlodge.rockresorts.com). The Lodge is located right on the slopes so as to allow for ski in-ski out accommodations. For the skiers, this destination is perennially listed in the top 5 in North America. The ski area will test every one; 10% of the slopes are rated beginner, 40% rated intermediate and 50% advanced. The ski area has over 120 groomed runs with 4139ft of vertical. We have friends who winter regularly in Teton Village and they relate that the ski school is marvelous for children. Our rates are reasonable and the variety of rooms in our reserved block offers a lot of choices, most of the allowing up to 4 people. Larger suites are available. The ambience and the amenities of the lodge (wonderful spa and pool) are very appealing. My wife Julia and I aren’t downhill enthusiasts but are very excited about this meeting as there are so many other winter activities available in the region. Cross country skiing along the Snake River in the shadow of the Grand Teton has been on our “bucket list” for quite some time. Sled Dog experiences, wildlife viewing, snowmobiling and tramping around in snow shoes are a few of the many possibilities for those flatlanders attending the meeting. The Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park are easy driving distance from Jackson Hole and offer untold opportunities for memorable experiences (think Old Faithful in the winter). It should be a great meeting.
Before ending, I would like to note that the success of our meetings and our robust membership roster does not occur as happenstance. Bob DeFoor’s work on our behalf as Secretary-Treasurer is noteworthy. CME credits, meeting arrangements, balancing our books, keeping the officers on tasks and untold innumerable details are tasks that he performs with deft expertise, He is due many thanks.
In closing, I would caution to not find yourself in the situation next year of once again reading the President’s letter and regretting the decision to forgo the annual meeting of our august organization. Julia and I look forward to seeing you at the Snake River Lodge, Teton Village , Jackson Hole ,WY Jan 22-26, 2013.
Sincerely,
George F Steinhardt
President, AAPU