THE SEVENTH IMSA
NATIONAL CONVENTION
May 22-25, 2009
Naples, Florida
2009 IMSA Convention: At a Glance
The 7th National IMSA Convention in Naples, Florida was one of the most enjoyable National Conventions. Many members who attended the convention considered it the best IMSA convention ever. The convention was held at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Naples, Florida. A six-star hotel with two properties: a beach resort with gorgeous white beaches and spectacular views of the Gulf of Mexico, and a golf resort built on a Greg Norman signature golf course. IMSA offered free Golf passes to four of our members who enjoyed a game of golf under clear blue skies.
Friday, May 22, 2009, started with registration and cocktails, where IMSA members and their families met and mingled with each other in a friendly and cordial environment. Short welcoming speeches were given by the IMSA President, Dr. Riad Almudallal and IMSA Secretary Dr. Arkan Al-Rashid. The members later enjoyed an evening in Napel’s Downtown first-class restaurants with music and dancing.
Saturday, May 23, 2009, the scientific program began with a continental breakfast for the registrants and a welcoming speech from the scientific committee chair, Dr. Saad Shakir. This was followed by CME lectures presented by IMSA ‘s talented Iraqi medical professionals. The lunch program started with a welcoming speech by IMSA president, Dr. Riad Almudallal. The scientific committee chair, Dr.Saad Shakir, presented CME lecturers with honorary gifts in recognition for their services. During lunch, Dr. Imad Almanaseer and Dr.Saad Shakir provided two presentations on helping Iraqi refugees in Syria and Jordan.
Dr. Amin Alousi gave a brief eulogy in remembrance of his late father, IMSA’s past president Professor Majid Alousi.
The Gala; Saturday evening May 23, 2009. IMSA members and their families attended the Convention’s gala. The Gala ceremony began with a speech by IMSA president Dr. Riad Almudallal recounting IMSA Board’s achievements over the past 1 1/2 years and thanking the IMSA Convention Committee for their great effort in making the Convention a success. The members and their families then partook in proudly singing Iraq’s national anthem, “Mawtani” (You may view the video below). Dinner and dancing were enjoyed by all. Music was provided by an Iraqi band from Michigan called “Al-Ajrass”.
Sunday, May 24, 2009, began with a general assembly meeting attended by the active IMSA members. During the meeting, nominations were submitted for the upcoming elections of the IMSA Board of Directors. The meeting was followed by a brunch attended by members and their families. The afternoon was free for members to enjoy Naples’s many attractions.
The convention was concluded with a Sunset dinner cruise that took our members and their families into the Gulf of Mexico, enjoying beautiful weather and scenery.
Everyone had a greatly enjoyable experience at this year’s convention, and we’re looking forward to the 2010 IMSA National Convention.