Page 8 - Bulletin Vol 30 No 2 - May - Aug. 2025 FINAL_

Message from the Executive Director (cont.)

This measure guarantees tax parity for small business dental practices and protects dentists from a 1.5%-5%
tax hike.

These are just a few examples of how your membership in organized dentistry helps you and your profes-
sion. To paraphrase John F. Kennedy, “Ask not what your Society can do for you, ask what you can do for

your Society.” To be successful at everything I’ve just described, we need to represent a majority of den-
tists in the community, the state, and the country. When I graduated from dental school, 85% of all dentists
were members of the ADA. Today just over 51% of dentists are members. It’s not just dentistry. Younger
generations are not joining, and all organizations are seeing membership declines.

So, what can you do for your Society? I’m sure you all know at least one colleague who is not a member.
Talk to them! Explain to them the importance of organized dentistry to the profession. If you want to be
bold, tell them to stop freeloading off of your dues dollars! If they are a specialist, don’t refer to them if

they are not an ADA member. And, TELL THEM THAT’S THE REASON! That was my ace in the hole when I
was in practice and I can point to at least three current members who joined because of my requirement.
Maybe invite them to come with you to one of our General Membership Meetings for dinner and a lecture.
Let them experience the camaraderie that occurs there. If you do, call me to let me know they’re coming
with you and I will get them registered and waive the $175 Non-Member fee.

I need every one of you to be an advocate for our Society and organized dentistry! I also ask that you con-
sider volunteering for one of our committees or to become a member of our Board of Directors. We need
new ideas to move us forward! Be part of the positive change that improves the profession and helps you
succeed.

Stay well,
Gene Porcelli

Message from the Editor (Continued)

and now it is time for my next adventure. I will always be involved in organized dentistry, as Nassau
NYSDA Trustee I enjoy representing you and will continue until my tenure ends in 2027. Keeping engaged

and actively involved in our organization is in my DNA. To those not involved, consider getting involved,
you will be warmly welcomed and the connections you make will enhance both your dentistry and your
well-being.

Don

Editor-in-Chief

8 | Nassau County Dental Society ⬧ www.nassaudental.org