Thank You For Helping Us Feed Our Neighbors in Need!

Our Feeding Neighbors in Need project was a huge success, thanks to all of your contributions! We are happy to report that 512 lbs of food was collected for the Feeding Neighbors In Need Project.

We collected food from November 9th to December 16th, and all items were donated to needy families all around Northeast Arkansas. Great job patients and team!

Have a happy and safe New Year, from the entire Fergus Burris Team!

Happy Holidays!

The holiday season is upon us, and all of us on The Fergus Burris Team reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What’s your favorite part about the holidays? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for the new year? Opening presents? All the delicious food?

We’d love if you shared with us all the things you love about the holidays and don’t forget to stay away from too many of those sweets!

Kobei, another lucky recipient of a S4L scholarship

We wanted to congratulate the latest recipient of a Smile For a Lifetime Scholarship, Kobei Mooney.

Kobei is 10 years old and attends Faulk Elementary School in West Memphis. He is very artistic, with painting, drawing and poems being his favorites. He is also a basketball player, and the season starts this week!

Kobei is very shy when people try to help him, however, he likes to help others and knows braces will help him help others. Upon hearing of winning the orthodontic scholarship, Kobei was “overwhelmed with excitement and joy”, saying it “was like a dream come true”. His mom said that this will help make Kobei more confident and outgoing.

Of the donors to Smile for a Lifetime, she would say: “they will never know the true reality of their generous blessing”. Although Kobei’s dad had to be in Virginia the day he got his braces on, mom taped the entire thing so that his proud father would not miss anything. Kobei’s grandparents also came to see him get his braces on, as was Mrs. Donald, the principal at Faulk Elementary. She said that the entire family is a joy to have in school.

Christie George, Kobei’s teacher for English and Science last year, said that he maintained a’s in both subjects all year, even entering an essay contest about “Random Acts of Kindness” that won for his school and went on to represent Faulk at the next level.

His dentist, Dr. Debi Williams, who told his mom about the foundation, thinks he is a pretty great kid as well, saying that she knows he will “make her proud”.


Congratulations Kobei!

Kevin Johnson, another S4L Recipient, Gets His Braces On!

You may have remembered reading the wonderful application that we posted from Kevin Johnson's family a few weeks ago. Kevin was awarded a Smile For A Lifetime Orthodontic Scholarship from The Fergus Burris Team and KISS FM Jonesboro. Kevin got his braces on last Tuesday, and the photo above shows him and his family with Dr. Burris and Brandon Baxter from KISS FM.

Congratulations Kevin, you are on the road to a great new smile!

Smile For a Lifetime Patient Kathleen gets her braces off!

The photo above is the very first Smile for a Lifetime recipient to get her braces off. Her name is Kathleen Otterpohl, and she got her braces off on Tuesday. Check out the quote about Kathleen below from the national Smile for a Lifetime director, Aimee Spencer:

Kathleen's reference letters were fantastic and I believe that is why she stood out so much to the local board. She had one letter from her dental hygienist who knew her personally. She had another letter from a family that she babysat for. They talked about what a good person Kathleen was, and how she would often forgo hanging out with friends and school activities so she could work (babysit) for extra money to help her Mom out. Her mom is a school teacher and also drives the bus for extra money. Going by memory, Kathleen is/was very involved in church. The day the braces were removed, Kathleen's mom cried just about the whole time. She was so appreciative and said many times "God bless S4L". She thanked everyone, and told us what an answered prayer this experience was.

Congratulations on your new smile Kathleen!

-The Fergus Burris Team

Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving is almost here, and the Fergus Burris Team is thankful for all our wonderful patients and friends that make each day extraordinary!

Since the holiday season is about to begin, what are you thankful for?

Share a response in the comments section, or head over to our Facebook Fan Page to join the conversation!

Happy Thanksgiving,

--Drs. Burris and Fergus

Sady Martin Receives S4L Orthodontic Scholarship

Sady Martin has recently received braces from the Smile for a Lifetime Foundation, NEA/Bootheel of Missouri. Sady is the 13-year-old daughter of Gerald Martin of Malvern, AR. She is in the eighth grade and is involved in basketball, cheerleading, track, and softball. In a reference letter, Shelly Snowden, a family friend, said, “Sady deserves these braces. She is a beautiful person on the inside and just needs a bit of help on the outside. I know if she receives this, it will be something that she will appreciate for the rest of her life.”

Along with her application, there were many reference letters describing how delightful and strong Sady is. After reading her application, the Nea/Bootheel of Missouri Smile for a Lifetime board of directors selected her as a recipient of orthodontic care free of charge. Way to go, Sady! We know you will do many good things in the future, and we wish you the best!

--The Fergus Burris team

Join the Us and Help Feed Neighbors in Need

Help us feed neighbors in need! Orthodontics by the Fergus-Burris Team is collecting nonperishable foods until December 16 for their Feeding Neighbors in Need project. All food collected will be donated to needy families in Northeast Arkansas.

Patients will receive one Fergus-Burris Buck for each canned item they donate. Drop off items at our Jonesboro, West Memphis, Forrest City and Paragould locations or call (870) 972-8294 for more information.

Congratulations to Kevin, winner of an Orthodontic Scholarship!

Drs. Burris and Fergus teamed up with KISS FM Jonesboro to award a Smile for a Lifetime scholarship to Kevin Johnson of Kennett, MO. Take a look at the heartwarming application that Kevin's parents submitted, below:

Kevin is my 16 year old stepson. He has a twin brother Keith, a 14 year old sister Kara and a 15 month old sister Alayna. (Keith & Kara are from my husbands 1st marriage). Keith and Kara were both born with a bone disorder called Morquio Syndrome (like the little boy in Simon Birch). It causes their bodies to stop growing, but their organs continue to grow. Not long after they were diagnosed, their mom decided to leave them. They have been with their dad for several years.

As long as I've been a part of their lives, Kevin has been a HUGE part in taking care of Keith and Kara. He helps them get on and off of the bus. He carries them upstairs to their classroom at church. Helps get them something to drink when they're thirsty, turns the lights on and off for them...basically anything that most of us take for granted, he does for them. He's also a big help with the baby. Over the years, Keith and Kara have had to have several surgeries and have required lots of attention. Kevin never complained. I've seen him give up chances to go places and do things simply becauce Keith and Kara can't.

He's a very hard worker and would do anything for anyone. I feel that he deserves something special in return. We just today found a dentist in the area that accepts Medicaid so we are in the process of getting him an appt. there. I had to have braces as a child and my teeth didn't look near as bad as his do so we're pretty sure he's going to have to have braces.

I think Smile for a Lifetime is an awesome program and Kevin would be so excited if he qualified. Thank you.

Nikki Perkins Receives Orthodontic Scholarship

Congratulate Nikki Perkins! She recently received braces from the Smile for a Lifetime Foundation, NEA/Bootheel of Missouri. Nikki is the 13-year-old daughter of Barry and Donna Perkins of Hot Springs, AR. She is currently in the seventh grade and is involved in Locks of Love and basketball. Nikki said that she would to receive braces so that she will smile more and not feel self-conscious. In her application, her mother said, “Nikki is going to start a new school next year, and this will give her more confidence...Maybe she will smile with her teeth showing more.”

All letters of recommendation that accompanied Nikki’s application spoke of what a caring and giving heart Nikki has. The Nea/Bootheel of Missouri Smile for a Lifetime board of directors selected Nikki as a recipient of orthodontic care at no cost. Congratulations Nikki! We expect to see great things out of Nikki and wish her the best as she is on her way to a new smile.

--The Fergus Burris Team

Candice Beakley Receives Orthodontic Scholarship

Smile for a Lifetime Foundation, NEA/Bootheel of Missouri is pleased to announce that Candice Beakley recently received an orthodontic scholarship! Candice is the 17 year-old daughter of Kathy Beakley of Paragould. Kathy wrote in Candace’s application, “The gap in her teeth causes her to be overly self-conscience. She lacks self confidence even though I and all those around her can see she has the potential of being a leader…All through her childhood no dentist ever told me that Candice was born without the two teeth that has resulted in this large gap.

"Candice has the normal stress of teenagers and school but this gap causes her stress level to sky rocket at times and she ends up with migraine headaches. She is a good, kind descent person who deserves this procedure.” The NEA/Bootheel of Missouri Board of Directors decided Candice was an excellent candidate and awarded the orthodontic scholarship. Way to go Candace and congratulations on beginning the process of your new smile!

--The Fergus Burris Team

Hunter Nunnally Receives Orthodontic Scholarship

Hunter Nunnally recently received an orthodontic scholarship from the Smile for a Lifetime Foundation! Hunter is the 14-year old son of Donnie and Heather Nunnally of Smithville. In her letter of recommendation Hunter’s former 5th grade teacher said, “Hunter is one of the brightest young men I have ever had the privilege to instruct. He is a wonderful student and very active in sports and clubs at school. Hunter has the ability to be a natural born leader but is very self conscious of his teeth. He rarely smiles with a toothy grin. I have noticed over the years that he is very leery of public speaking and in many ways is shy and at times withdrawn from his peers and I think that is due largely in part to the way he feels about his teeth. I think it is safe to say that his self esteem would be helped tremendously with braces.” The NEA/Bootheel of Missouri Smile for a Lifetime board of directors agreed and selected Hunter to receive orthodontic care at no cost. Congratulations Hunter!

A Must See Video: Healthcare Reform

I don't often get involved in this type of stuff or do political blogs, but I think we all want a bipartisan, logical and realistic solution to healthcare reform. Have a look at this YouTube video if you have 5 minutes. Congressman Tom Price, a physician, comments on the proposed healthcare reform. No matter which side of the debate you are on, he makes some good points that need to be addressed. I hope cooler heads will prevail and we will not rush from a system with problems into a system that has not thoroughly thought out and discussed for the sake of getting something done. Thanks.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SD_YOlUBoIk

S4L Central Arkansas Selects Recipients for Braces

Congratulations Cory Smith, Sadie Martin and Ashley Williams for being considered to receive orthodontic scholarships from the Central Arkansas Smile for a Lifetime Foundation. Cory, Sadie and Ashley will attend an orthodontic screening next week to assess their teeth. After they complete the screening that proves their teeth are ready for braces, they will be awarded their scholarship. Way to go Cory, Sadie and Ashley for beginning the road to your new smile!

S4L NEA Announces Latest Recipients

The Northeast Arkansas/Southeast Missouri Smile for a Lifetime Board of Directors recently met and selected six candidates to receive orthodontic scholarships for the months of August, September and October. Congratulations to Hunter Nunnally of Smithville; Isac Arellano of Leachville; Candice Beakley of Paragould; Kendra McGough of Batesville; Austin Carter of Sulpher Rock; and Wayne Wicker of Jonesboro for being selected by the Smile for a Lifetime Foundation! Each recipient will receive a scholarship for braces that covers the cost of treatment and follow-up visits. It is such an honor to be selected! Way to go!!!

Pictured: Back row, l to r: Kendra McGough, Hunter Nunnally, Wayne Wicker, and Candice Beakley. First row, l to r: Isac Arellano, Dr. Ben Burris and Austin Carter

Haley Brown recently received braces from the Smile for a Lifetime Foundation, NEA/Bootheel of Missouri . Haley is the 14 year-old daughter of Ronnie Brown of Bono. Haley said braces will change her life by giving her a prettier smile and more self-confidence. In her application her father said, “Haley puts on a half smile like she’s embarrassed by her teeth. I would love to see her full smile.” The NEA/Boothheel of Missouri Smile for a Lifetime board of directors agreed and selected Haley to receive orthodontic care at no cost. Congratulations Haley!

Smile for a Lifetime Foundation, NEA/Bootheel of Missouri is pleased to announce that Carlin Puckett recently received an orthodontic scholarship! Carlin is an 8th grader at South Pemiscot Jr. High School in Steele , MO. Carlin’s mother wrote in her application, “Carlin has begged me often to get her to an orthodontist. And as her mother it really hurts me not to be able to afford to get braces for her….I know she would be thankful for an opportunity like this and I would feel like a better parent because she was able to get her teeth fixed.” Several other letters of recommendation accompanied Carlin’s application and spoke of what a wonderful person she is and the many things she has achieved. Congratulations Carlin! We expect to see great things out of you in the future.

Carter Orthodontics Awards S4L Scholarships

Dr. David Carter awarded 6 orthodontic scholarships recently. As president of Smile for a Lifetime Foundation, Dr. Carter knows how life changing the gift of a smile can be and he is going above and beyond to give back to his community. Way to go Dr. Carter!
Check out the link to learn more - it is well worth your time!

http://www.wrdw.com/health/headlines/48630052.html

Berkeley Ann Burris Born June 8, 2009, 7:38 am

Berkeley was born in Jonesboro and is healthy and happy. Bridget is doing well and we cannot thank everyone enough for all the support we have received. Everyone is home and William is trying to adjust to being the No. 2 child now but he will figure it out.

S4L Awards Chyann Holifield Orthodontic Scholarship

Rector High School 8th grader Chyann Holifield received her braces today! After reading her application the Board of Directors decided that Chyann would definitely benefit from braces and use her beautiful new smile to help others. The application read as follows, "She is a wonderful lady who has overcome a lot. She deserves to have that confidence and to feel good about herself. As you know, children can be mean sometimes but Chyann always seems to rise above the teasing and it has made her more aware of how she treats people. She has more compassion for other kids that get teased like she does and she takes them under her wing and makes sure they know they have a friend in her always." Way to go Chyanne and congratulations on beginning the road to your new smile.

Abria Scott Receives Orthodontic Scholarship

Abria Scott of Jonesboro received her braces today from Smile for a Lifetime, NEA/Bootheel of Missouri. In Abria's application her mother said, "We as parents just want what's best fo our children and feel that if we could please get some help with braces Abria would come out of her shell and continue to blossom into a beautiful young woman." The board of directors agreed and selected Abria to receive orthodontic care at no cost. Several other letters of recommendation accompanied Abria's application and all spoke of what a wonderful young lady she is. Congratulations Abria! We expect to see great things out of you in the future as you strive to reach your potential.

Patient Appreciation Party

More than 900 patients, parents and friends showed up this morning at the Paragould Cinnemas to watch Night at the Museum II. With popcorn and sodas all around, a great time was had by all. The Fergus-Burris Orthodontic Team wants to thank all who participated and made this year's party the biggest and most successful to date. We truly appreciate our patients!

Tye Ward Gets Braces Today!

Tye Ward, the May recipient of an orthodontic scholarship from Smile for a Lifetime Foundation, Central Arkansas, received his braces today. Tye and his father had a big morning... getting braces, giving interviews and posing for photos! We look forward to Tye styling in Life and Home and The Sentinel-Record! I'm so excited for Tye. Straight teeth and a great smile will only enhance his already wonderful personality. He certainly is a deserving guy and has truly earned his orthodontic scholarship. We expect to see big things out of him in the future...

The Board of Directors for Smile for a Lifetime, Central Arkansas accepts applications and meets quarterly to pick three deserving youngsters to receive orthodontic scholarships. Applications are available at S4L.org. This is life-changing work and as Cheryl Hicks said in her letter recommending Tye, "The outside world is cruel and people are judged by their smile. I would like to see Tye have a chance to have a great smile. This would be one of the greatest gifts he could ever receive. This is a gift for a lifetime."

West Memphis Patient Appreciation Party

Saturday night at Autozone park in Memphis was the annual Fergus-Burris Team patient appreciation party. We had a great turnout and enjoyed seeing you all there to watch the Redbirds. The weather was perfect - a little cool but no rain and the fireworks really capped the evening. Dr. Fergus and I truly appreciate all of you and hope you enjoyed the evening. Thanks so much for joining us.

Cassandra Nolen Gets Her Braces Today!

Smile for a Lifetime Foundation, NE Arkansas/Bootheel of Missouri is pleased to announce that Cassandra Nolen received her orthodontic scholarship today! Cassandra is an 18 year old Junior at Holcomb High School and is described by Kris Noblin (counselor at Holcomb High) as, "polite and pleasant, not to mention a responsible student". "As you are well aware, this [the orthodontic scholarship from S4L] would not only add to her appearance, but would boost her self-esteem", Noblin continues. The S4L board of directors selected Cassandra based on her story and potential and expects great things from her in her senior year at Holcolm High School. Congratulations Cassandra!

Taryn McCuiston Gets Her Braces!

Smile for a Lifetime Foundation, NE Arkansas/Bootheel of Missouri is pleased to announce that Taryn McCuiston received her orthodontic scholarship today! Taryn is a 9 year old third grader at Marked Tree Elementary and her teacher Mrs. Mary Kidd described her as, "a sweet young lady", and said that she would benefit from a great smile. We are so happy the Board chose Taryn to receive this wonderful gift. Congratulations to Taryn and her family!

S4L Central Arkansas Names President and Secretary

Chris Young, Region Manager for Arkansas/Memphis with Henry Schein Dental has been named President of the Smile for a Lifetime, Central Arkansas Chapter. He is a natural fit - being senior management for Henry Schein (Forbes says that the company is the most admired for social responsibility in the health care industry) he knows what it takes to be involved in his community and make a difference in people's lives. We are excited that he is willing to put in the time and effort it takes to give the gift of a smile to children in Central Arkansas.
Jill Johnson has been named Secretary/Treasurer for S4L, Central Arkansas. Jill is the director of Saline County Boys and Girls Club and also has a long history of serving her community in various capacities. She is experienced in several areas that are critical to the success of S4L and we are truly fortunate that she is willing to do the heavy lifting that is required for the foundation to succeed.
Thanks to you both.

S4L at the AAO Meeting in Boston: Come See Us at Booth 1445

Smile for a Lifetime Foundation is gearing up for the American Association of Orthodontists annual session in Boston this weekend. Several board members and the Executive Director will be on hand to answer questions and take applications. Stop by booth 1445 and check out the kiosk.

Smile for a Lifetime Mentioned in NY Times Article

The Thursday, April 16th edition of the New York Times has an article about braces that mentions Smile for a Lifetime Foundation. We are so excited to get this kind of exposure for the foundation and have had a very nice response. Check it out...
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/16/fashion/16SKIN.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=many%20cutbacks%20but%20not%20for%20straight%20teeth&st=cse

Kaley Johnson Started Treatment Today!

Smile for a Lifetime, Central Arkansas started treatment on the first recipient of free orthodontic care, Kaley Johnson, today! We are excited that she has started her journey toward the smile of her dreams...

Also, the first edition of the S4L Central Arkansas newsletter is now available. In it, you can learn more about what an awesome person Kaley is as well as details about S4L Central Arkansas and how you can get involved. If you would like a copy of the newsletter emailed to you, shoot me an email at bgbdds@yahoo.com .

Dr. David Carter - S4L President

The Early Show on CBS is seeking "Angels" - people who are selflessly doing amazing things for others. I cannot think of a better example of an "Angel" than Dr. David Carter, an orthodontist in Augusta, GA. David has been elected President of Smile for a Lifetime Foundation's National Board of Directors. It is a herculean task and he spends untold hours coordinating and organizing S4L as we roll out nationally. It is only through his generosity, determination and skill that Smile for a Lifetime has and will continue the transformation from a small regional charity to the nationwide organization giving THOUSANDS of children a year free braces and the gift of a smile. Please take a little time and go to

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2009/04/03/earlyshow/main4916950.shtml

and write something to let CBS know what a superstar Dr. Carter is.

Thanks so much for all your help - your input makes a difference...

April Newsletter for S4L NE Arkansas/Bootheel of MO Available

The newsletter is out and is packed with great stories, quotes and photos. If you didn't get a copy emailed to you, just shoot me an email with "newsletter request" in the subject line and I'll send one your way bgbdds@yaho.com

S4L Central Arkansas Announces Board of Directors and First Recipient of Braces

Smile for a Lifetime Foundation, Central Arkansas held a press conference today in Benton, AR today to announce the members of the Board of Directors and the first recipient of free orthodontic treatment, Kaley Johnson. Kayley is an 11th grader at Harmony Grove High School and is very involved school, cheer leading and her church. She was described as "a conscientious young lady with great potential", in a glowing letter of recommendation by Susie Simmons (Harmony Grove School Counselor) and is held in high regard by all that know her. Her father filled out the application and ended it with, "Please give Kaley the smile I could not!". We are so happy to be able to fulfill Kaley's dreams and give her a beautiful smile.

(photo of Kayle Johnson, her father and Ben Burris)

The members of the Board of Directors were also announced at the press conference and include:

From Benton, AR
Dr. Justin Bethel
Stephanie Casady
Tammy Chastain
Jill Johnson
Whit Jones

From Hot Springs, AR
Dr. Nicholas Van Bebber
Dr. Edward Cooper
Leslie G. Sarver
Pat Switzer
Jen Waid

From Pine Bluff, AR
Misti Williams-Rodruguez
Roderick O. Shelby, Sr

From Little Rock, AR
Chris Young

Thanks so much for all the time and effort donated by the board members, to Aimee Spencer (National Executive Director of S4L) and to Raven Goodrich (Regional Director for S4L) . Also a special thanks goes to Judge Herzfeld for allowing us to use his courtroom and to Stephanie Casady for arranging the locale. We are very excited for Central Arkansas and know that the applications will continue to pour in. Please email Aimee Spencer for an application smileforalifetime@yahoo.com or stop by Central Arkansas Orthodontic Associates in Benton or Hot Springs (501) 321-0560.

Smile for a Lifetime – Progress Report

Since Brian Williams spoke about Smile for a Lifetime Foundation on NBC's Nightly News, David Carter, Aimee Spencer and I have been overrun with inquiries from orthodontists who are ready to start a local chapter. This is a very exciting time as the National Board of Directors finalizes the national bylaws and puts the finishing touches on the organizational and logistical aspects of S4L becoming a truly national nonprofit. We have the foundation up and going in our test practices and have almost finished working out the kinks. We now have a clear blueprint for other orthodontists to follow to make it easy for them to get up and running and to help accomplish our national goal: treat lots and lots of kids who would not get braces otherwise! We are hoping for an endorsement from the American Association of Orthodontists soon and plan to grant widespread access to the S4L model at the same time it is endorsed by the AAO. When Smile for a Lifetime is endorsed, any AAO member in good standing will be eligible to form a Smile for a Lifetime Foundation local chapter. The National Board of Directors will take applications and insure an orderly progression as S4L rolls out nationwide. We are so excited about the thousands of kids that will be treated by all the wonderful orthodontists who are so generously giving of their time and talent that words cannot describe how we feel…

Brian Williams Increases S4L’s Visibility

Another banner day for Smile for a Lifetime Foundation! In the wake of Brian Williams talking about Smile for a Lifetime Foundation last night on the 6:00 news, Aimee Spencer, David Carter and I are getting blown up with emails, phone calls and texts from orthodontists who want to join the cause and integrate S4L in their community. We have also been contacted by numerous folks in need of braces and wanting to know if there is a Smile for a Lifetime chapter near them or if there will be one soon. I wish I could call Brian Williams and thank him for all he has done by choosing to mention S4L on his news cast. I wonder if he has any idea how many thousands of lives he has and will touch by spreading the word about the foundation. What a great concept – talking about good news on the nightly news. He is a genius. I suspect that the coverage S4L got last night will only lead to more interest and more coverage. Our goal from the beginning was to treat as many kids in need as possible and we believe that the more exposure the foundation gets, the more orthodontists we will be able to recruit to the cause and, ultimately, the more children that will receive desperately needed orthodontic treatment free of charge. What a great time to be alive. I suspect what is to come will surpass even my wildest dreams…

Brian Williams Talks About S4L on The Nightly News!

Smile for a Lifetime Foundation made the Nightly News with Brian Williams! My awesome wife Bridget has given us unprecedented coverage and access to orthodontists across the country with her heartfelt email that Brian read on air tonight. I am so fortunate to be married to such a lady! We are already receiving emails from across the country from orthodontists who want to start a local chapter and folks in need of braces, and we are so excited to reach such a broad audience. The foundation continues to grow and we hope to have the American Association of Orthodontists endorse Smile for a Lifetime in the near future. Have a look at Brian’s piece on the Foundation at http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032619/#29843671 .

Free Dentistry! Dr. Justin Bethel Gives Benton, AR Something to Smile About

We were seeing patients yesterday in our Benton, AR office and I had a chance to visit with Dr. Justin Bethel. He and I went to dental school together and are long time friends. A couple weeks ago, Aimee Spencer and I asked Dr. Bethel to donate his precious time to Smile for a Lifetime Foundation Central Arkansas and serve as a member of the Board of Directors. He graciously agreed. When I spoke to Justin yesterday, he said all that is happening with S4L has inspired him to action. He and his staff at Benton Dental Associates have decided to give away free emergency dental care one day a month! Justin said he has worked in a free clinic that already serves the Benton/Bryant, AR area and he enjoyed giving back so much that he thinks it is time to do more. I’m so excited that Justin has decided to give of his time and hard won talents to the people in his home town. I cannot think of a greater service than reliving pain and suffering for someone who cannot otherwise afford dental care. Way to go Dr. Bethel – we are so proud of you and look forward to hearing about your good work in the future!
If you know someone in need of emergency dental care in the Benton/Bryant area, please call Benton Dental Associates at 501-794-4646 for a schedule of the days free treatment will be done.

Smile for a Lifetime: Augusta, Georgia

I was lucky enough to spend some time with Dr David Carter on Sunday and Monday. I got to visit his office and he and his wife were gracious enough to let me stay Sunday night in their home. David has been practicing orthodontics in Augusta for 20 years and has an unbelievable mind. His practice is top notch and I learned a great deal during my short stay. As well as being an orthodontic superstar in his own right, David is the new Chairman of the National Board of Directors for Smile for a Lifetime Foundation. From the time I met him I knew he would be the one to tackle the challenge and take the foundation to the next level. Just a few weeks ago he decided to start a Smile for a Lifetime chapter in Augusta, GA and it is already well on the way. The local board of directors he has recruited is out of sight in terms of talent, connections and influence and I assure you that his chapter of S4L will be one to watch.
In addition to an awesome wife, two great kids, and an all star local board of directors, David has another ace up his sleeve: Allyson Davis. I spent some time with her today and she is on fire for the foundation and is always looking for ways to improvise, maximize, and grow the S4L by any means necessary. Allyson is the one who came up with the best idea of the entire two day brain storming session – she has figured out a way to do local and national fund raising for S4L and further involve our communities. Miss Smile for a Lifetime pageants will be our vehicle and I am so excited about it. What could be a better venue to promote the foundation and raise money to treat those who are in desperate need but cannot afford orthodontic care? More to come on this as soon as we work out the details. The Augusta chapter and the NE Arkansas chapter will be in a race to see who can crown the first Miss Smile for a Lifetime, do a great job putting on a stellar pageant, and raise a lot of money for a good cause. It will be awesome.

Smile for a Lifetime Central Arkansas Unveiled

The press announcement for Smile for a Lifetime Central Arkansas has been set:

When: Friday, April 3rd, at Noon

Where: Benton, Arkansas
Judge Herzfeld's courtroom (the old sheriff’s office)
321 North Main in downtown Benton

A general overview of the counties covered and the application process will be given. Also, we will reveal the all star board of directors hand picked to serve our community. Finally, the name of the first person in Central Arkansas to receive free orthodontic treatment from Smile for a Lifetime Foundation will be announced!
Aimee and I are very excited and have been overrun with calls from folks who want to submit applications and those who want to serve on the board of directors. What exciting times we live in. Arkansans never cease to amaze me when it comes to generosity and supporting one another. I can’t think of a better place to live, practice and raise my children. We are so blessed to be a small part of our wonderful state and this great country…

By the way, Lee Lamberson is now a local celebrity in Northeast Arkansas. Check out his debut on KAIT 8 TV at http://www.kait8.com/global/category.asp?c=151146&clipId=&topVideoCatNo=104015&topVideoCatNoB=109374&topVideoCatNoC=114876&topVideoCatNoD=109122&topVideoCatNoE=120883&clipId=3537250&topVideoCatNo=160818&autoStart=true

Form more information email Aimee Spencer at smileforalifetime@yahoo.com.

Lee Lamberson receives braces from S4L today!

The second recipient of free orthodontic treatment for the month of March also got his braces today. Lee Lamberson is a senior at Jonesboro High School and is very involved in the theater program. He was described by his drama teacher as being, “a very talented actor who won’t let his enthusiasm show because of his smile”. Lee has plans to attend college in the fall and wants to major in theater.
Dawn Tucker, JHS drama teacher said, “His current smile will hinder him in this endeavor [college major in drama]. He is a versatile theater student working both on stage and back stage but he will be forced to work back stage without your [S4L] help”. We are so glad to grant Lee’s wish for a great smile to go along with is wonderful talent. We know that this will increase his confidence and self image and help him achieve his dreams.
When asked how he felt about being selected by S4L Lee said, “I would like to say how grateful I really am. I never in all my life thought that something like this would happen to me. When my teacher told me I was selected I almost cried. This is the best thing that has ever happened to me.”
What more can I add…
Be sure to catch Lee on KAIT 8 TV tonight at 5 and 6 pm or on the website at http://www.kait8.com/ .

Katy Gardner and grandma

A couple pics of Katy getting her braces and with grandma. It has been a great morning!

Katy Gardner gets her braces!

This morning Katy Gardner from Weiner, Arkansas is getting her braces free of charge courtesy of Smile for a Lifetime Foundation of Northeast Arkansas. We are so excited and know that this gift will make a huge change in the life of an awesome young lady. Katy is an 8th grader who wants to be a pediatrician when she grows up. She said in her hand written letter accompanying her application, “The day my grandma said I got free braces I was thrilled. When I receive my free braces it will be the happiest day of my life. I won’t be self conscience any more. I will be able to smile without thinking about my teeth.”
We believe that by helping Katy feel good about herself and have the confidence to smile will give her the best shot at fulfilling her potential and achieving her goals. “I am always grossed out by my teeth, but when I get my braces off I will smile and be a happier person,” Katy said. I couldn’t have said it better myself!

S4L Expands; Dr. Hottel Rocks!

This week has started off with a bang! Aimee Spencer, the National Executive Director of Smile for a Lifetime Foundation, reports that there are close to 40 orthodontist in varying stages of starting their very own chapter of S4L! What an awesome change these members of the Schulman Study Group will make for children in desperate need of care all over the USA. In a time when most businesses are tightening their belts and cutting back on charitable giving, these businessmen and women are actually giving away thousands of dollars in treatment to the most vulnerable in their communities! S4L’s National Board of Directors has added a new member yesterday – Dr. David Carter, an orthodontist who practices in Augusta, GA as well as in SC. David has a fire in his belly and uncanny insight and he brings so much to the already formidable talent on the Board of Directors. A list of all the Board of Directors members and their bios can be found on the website smileforalifetimefoundation.com . The Board is also busily working on a business plan to present to the American Association of Orthodontists Task Force on Access to Care. S4L is one of three programs the AAO is considering adopting in doing its part to address the issue of access to care.
We are well on our way to getting the Central Arkansas chapter of Smile for a Lifetime up and going. Aimee Spencer has hand picked a knockout board of directors to oversee this chapter which will treat 12 patients each year free of charge. The official press release to announce the all star board members will be April 3rd at noon and we will also learn the name of the first recipient of free orthodontic care. Between the Central Arkansas and the Northeast Arkansas chapters of Smile for a Lifetime, almost half the state is covered!
On another note, I went to lunch today with Dr. Hottel, Dean of the UT College of Dentistry in Memphis and I have to say he is an awesome guy. He has the knowledge, experience and vision to pull our school into the modern era – and just in time as far as I’m concerned. Dr. Hottel has big plans to upgrade the curriculum, research capabilities and the physical plant and will need alumni support to make up for the dwindling government funds. He told me today that he will increase the number of Arkansas students admitted by 5 this year and has plans to take even more Arkansas students if his negotiations with the state are successful. We sure could use the dental professionals in Arkansas! If you get the chance I highly recommend you meet Dr. Hottel and support him in his crusade to put UT College of Dentistry on the map for all the right reasons.

Smile for a Lifetime Foundation

Big news last week, Smile for a Lifetime Foundation was adopted by the Schulman Study Group and is now a national nonprofit foundation. To give you some background, Smile for a Lifetime (S4L) orthodontic foundation was started in the fall of 2008 and our mission is "to create self confidence, inspire hope, and change the lives of children in our community in a dramatic way. The gift of a smile can do all this for a deserving, undeserved individual who, in turn, can use this gift to better themselves and our community." Our goal was to serve the children of NE Arkansas and the Bootheel of Missouri by providing no cost orthodontic care to two children a month who could not otherwise afford braces. We put the first two sets of braces on in December of 08 and it has gotten really interesting since then! Our board of directors has chosen six deserving recipients for the first quarter of 2009 and we have already put two sets of braces on in January and February and we will start the two cases for March next week. Applications are pouring in from all over the region and it is so great to be able to help folks and give back to the community that I love so much.
The Schulman Study group consists of 125 top tier practices in the US and Canada and our S4L's partnership with the SSG creates an awesome alliance that will result in thousands of children being treated across the country on an annual basis. We are so excited to have grown from a small regional charity to a national nonprofit organization. To learn more about the SSG visit the website at schulmanstudygroup.com . You can also visit the S4L website to check it out or get an application for yourself or for someone you know at smileforalifetimefoundation.com . While you are surfing the net, cruise on over to http://community.pennwelldentalgroup.com/ and vote for S4L in Penwell's dentistry in the community contest.