SPECIAL EVENTS

Sunday, September 21, 2008

Performance Tested Method Program: Validation of Rapid Microbiological Methods
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
This is a series of presentations put on by the AOAC Research Institute’s staff that outlines the Performance Tested Methods^SM Program for validating proprietary rapid microbiology methods. There will be specific information given for developers, independent laboratories and end users of rapid methods. It is important to gain an understanding of what is involved with a PTM validation. Developers of rapid methods need to understand their responsibilities in the process; independent laboratories often perform AOAC studies and would be interested in the laboratory section; and end-users would gain an understanding of what an AOAC PTM validation study entails. The presentations will include an overview of the PTM program, detailed information and suggestions on performing the laboratory work necessary for a validation study along with specifics and examples on the current recommended statistical analysis for microbiological methods. This workshop will help to demystify method validation by providing practical real-life applicability of the guidelines and lessons learned to those who want to pursue an AOAC Performance Tested MethodsSM approval for their microbiology rapid method as well as those who want to participate in studies.

Pre-registration is not required but requested. Send attendee contact information to ksilbernagel@aoac.org.

Official Methods Board Training Session
1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
The Official Methods Board is holding a session to train the Association membership on the new Official Methods Process. The new roles the volunteers may play in this process will be detailed and an overview of the Harmonized SLV/Collaborative process will be presented. Training in Manuscript Central for reviewers as well as for Study Directors will also be offered. The Chair and several members of the current Board will be available to answer questions.

Exhibit Hall Grand Opening Reception
6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
All Annual Meeting attendees and their registered guests are invited to the Grand Opening of the Exhibit Hall. This reception is always well-attended and provides an excellent opportunity to network with your colleagues and meet with representatives from the exhibiting organizations in a fun, relaxing environment.

President’s Welcome Reception
Co-Sponsored by 3M Microbiology
8:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Join AOAC INTERNATIONAL President, Sam Page as he welcomes attendees to Dallas, Texas and the 122nd AOAC Annual Meeting & Exposition. Enjoy the company of your peers and friends for cocktails and dancing to kick off this year's meeting. You won’t want to miss this gala event. This event is included in all Meeting attendees and guest registrations. Business or semi-formal attire is suggested.

Monday, September 22, 2008

Awards Ceremony
8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
AOAC INTERNATIONAL President, Sam Page, will present awards to individuals who have contributed to the analytical science community and to AOAC itself. Awards being presented include the prestigious Harvey W. Wiley Award and Wiley Scholarship, Fellows of AOAC, technical awards, and member service awards for those who have achieved the milestone anniversaries of 5-, 10-, and 25-years of membership in the Association.

New Member Welcoming Reception
Sponsored by Matheson Tri-Gas
5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Are you new to AOAC INTERNATIONAL? Are you looking to make new contacts and learn how to make the most of your membership investment? If you joined AOAC INTERNATIONAL since last year’s Annual Meeting in Anaheim, CA, you are cordially invited to the Annual New Member Welcoming Reception at the Annual Meeting. This is a great opportunity for new members to meet with colleagues from next door or around the world, and to learn more about the many benefits of membership.

Technical Division for Laboratory Management Reception
Sponsored by Medallion Labs
6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
If you’re looking for a reception that is both fun and full of networking opportunities, you don’t want to miss this reception! Connect with old friends and make some important new contacts. You will also learn more about TDLM and how you can get involved—and you might even win a door prize! All new managers are encouraged to attend.

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Technical Division on Reference Materials Reception
6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Take a moment to stop by the TDRM Reception immediately following the TDRM Members Meeting on Tuesday. It’s a casual setting in which to get more information about TDRM and its leaders. You will also learn more about what is planned for the upcoming year and how you can participate.

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Annual Meeting Closing Reception Hosted by the “Poison Squad” and Directed by Harvey W. Wiley
Co-Sponsored by AOAC Research Institute
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Join us for a step back in time. It’s the early 1900s and Harvey W. Wiley has begun his special experiment which was later known as Wiley’s “Poison Squad”. Wiley’s experiment consisted of feeding adulterated food on human volunteers to study the use of preservatives. Come and try some of these special “Poison Squad” delicacies.