January Proofs Note from the Editor

By Kevin Henry
Editor, Proofs

There are just some things in this world that I, quoting the Grinch, “loathe entirely.” I detest mustard. I always wonder why Noah brought ticks on the ark (surely they snuck on there on some of the other animals). I can’t stand being lost enough that I actually stop and ask for directions. I also hate New Year’s resolutions. I’ve never liked them. Seems like everyone always starts out with the best intentions on Jan. 1, knowing full well in three weeks they won’t be going to the gym, they will be eating donuts again, and they’ll be right back to where they were on December 31. Just seems kind of pointless to me, I guess.

Now don’t get me wrong. I’m all about how the New Year can be a fresh start. We have more than 8,000 people subscribing to this e-newsletter, and I know that number will keep climbing if we keep providing the information you need. We will do that … and add a few twists along the way. Look for some big news coming out in the February Proofs e-newsletter.

This marks the beginning of the 94th year for the print version of Proofs, and that’s a wonderful heritage ... but there’s no way that we’re just going to rest on the laurels of a great history. When you sit around and pat yourself on the back for a job well done, you’re just sitting there. We’re going to move forward, keep improving, and bring you the information you need to know in a timely manner. That’s my pledge to you as 2011 begins.

Speaking of 2011, I think it’s important to know where we’re heading as an industry to begin the year. My friends from R.W. Baird always do a great job sharing information with readers of Proofs, and this issue is no different with their forecast of the dental industry in 2011. Check it out by clicking here.

With the dawn of 2011 also began the official countdown to the IDS meeting in Cologne, Germany. It will be one of the highlights of the year for me personally, and I think it will be a benchmark for our worldwide industry as well. From March 22-26, IDS is expected to attract around 1,800 suppliers from 56 countries, presenting a broad range of product innovations and services. The gross exhibition space will be 143,000 square meters covering five halls. It’s truly a staggering show and one that if you’ve never been, you need to make your way to Germany to experience it. If you can’t be there this year, don’t worry. I am planning plenty of coverage from the meeting, including daily show recaps on DentistryIQ.com and a few other items that I’ll be revealing soon in this e-newsletter.

Finally, a word of congratulations is in order to Marv Ashworth, one of our sales reps for Proofs. He just celebrated his 50th year at PennWell (our parent company), and I think that’s just amazing. In an era of many working for multiple employers, Marv is a great example of loyalty. What is his secret to working 50 years at one place? He tells me it’s because he started working here when he was 4 years old. Personally, I think it’s simple — Marv loves what he does and everyone who knows him, loves and respects him. Congratulations Marv! Here’s to another 50.

Read on ... this is your e-newsletter.