As the president of CAMS-MAC for 2009, I would like to thank the past Presidents and Board Members for their invaluable contribution to make CAMS-MAC a vibrant organization. I will try my best to continue this great tradition. Thank you also to the new board members for their willingness to serve the Society.

Li, Mark MD, Kam, Laurance MD, Luu, Le Le MD, Chang, Richard DMD, MSD, Yu, Benson MD, Luo, Joan MD, Chen, Zhaoming MD, Cheung, Alan MD, Chow, Mo-Ping MD, Lau, Chuen-Yen MD, and Chang, Wilson MD.

As a first generation immigrant, I am well aware of the many barriers posed by our different languages and cultural upbringing. We all share a common root being Chinese. CAMS is a place where we can share our common interests and understanding to break through these barriers. Let us come together regularly to strengthen our friendship, share our knowledge, and serve our community as a unified society. 

I would like to take a moment to reflect on our past achievements.

• Multiple educational and social programs
• Scholarship and mentor programs
• Social service programs - our efforts were recognized by an award from the American Liver Foundation.

Let us also dedicate ourselves to continue these great programs.

This year, there will be fewer large dinner programs due to limitations of pharmacological sponsorship. Instead, we will host a series of smaller discussions programs lead by our own members in more relaxed setting. We will also be able to accommodate family members in the social.

Our first meeting will be held on February 8, 2009 (Sunday). A brunch will be served at the Guilin Restaurant at 10.45 AM, and at 12 noon, we will move to Dr. Mo Ping Chow's home which is 1 mile away. The doctors will participate in discussions on Updates in HIV (led by Dr. Chuen -Yen Lau from NIH) and on the JUPITER Study (led by Dr. Larry Kam, cardiologist). Family members will have the chance to socialize, thanks to the generosity of Dr. & Mrs. Mo Ping Chow who graciously volunteered their home for the event. A movie will be shown to the children.The event would end by 1.30 PM (Please see flyer attached.)

Please come, bring your colleagues and enjoy our friendship, share our knowledge and support our Society .

Finally, I wish to thank all of you who sent their membership applications and dues for 2009. For those of you who have not done so, please download the application form and return it to us as soon as you can.

For March, we are planning a cherry blossom Sunday brunch social in late March. Please bear that in mind when you plan your March activities.

Best wishes and warm regards,

                                   

Mark Li President 1-08-2009