Assemblies

Michigan Veterinary Conference

Event: Annual conference, Jan. 23-25, Lansing
Program: The conference, held jointly by the Michigan VMA and Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine, drew more than 1,600 attendees and offered 150 hours of continuing education.
Awards: W. Kenneth McKersie Service Award: Dr. Michael W. Bolton, Belding, for cumulative services and accomplishments benefiting the veterinary profession, the community, and the Michigan VMA. A 1978 graduate of Michigan State University, Dr. Bolton is a technical services veterinarian in dairy cattle business at Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health in Michigan. Earlier in his career, he owned practices in Auburndale, Wis., and Greenville, Mich. Dr. Bolton was president of the American Association of Bovine Practitioners from 2007-2008. He has served on the MVMA Food Animal Practice Committee and has been involved in the association's emergency preparedness efforts. Merit Award: Dr. Tari Kern, Clinton Township, for time and effort toward a project or activity benefiting the Michigan VMA or the veterinary profession. A 1999 graduate of Michigan State University, Dr. Kern practices at CATS Veterinary. She is chair of the MVMA Public Education Committee and for five years has coordinated People, Pets, and Vets—an event in Macomb County that helps educate children and the public on veterinary medicine. Community Service Award: Leader Dogs for the Blind, Rochester Hills, for contributions benefiting society. Since 1939, the organization has placed almost 14,000 leader dogs with people who are blind or visually impaired, and provides services every year to more than 250 people requiring assistance.
Officials: Drs. Paula Rode, Chelsea, president; James Lloyd, Okemos, president-elect; Franklin Carmona, Troy, 1st vice president; Susan Sayles, Jackson, 2nd vice president; and Hylon Heaton, Grand Blanc, immediate past president