Between our 2006 and 2008 meetings a lot will be transpiring.  New energy is visible within the Society as we work to increase membership, increase service to the membership, and provide true value to the international colorectal community.  We all stand on the shoulders that have gone before us, and Dr. Shafik is to be congratulated for the successful meeting in Istanbul.  The opportunity for the international colorectal community to come together and share their clinical expertise and experiences is a wonderful occasion.

We look forward to building on the Istanbul meeting at our September 2008 meeting in San Diego.  This is a wonderful venue for the meeting and Dr. Elliot Prager has already begun to organize the committees and special programs.  We anticipate opening the abstract process in November of 2007.

The BSC Management Company has advanced our visibility and activity significantly.  The webpage has been enhanced under Dr. Bergamaschi’s leadership and continues to expand on a weekly basis.

I am excited about the Society and what it can bring to the international colorectal community.  I hope you find value in the Society and will share with us your thoughts and ideas to make it better and more valuable.

Robert Beart, M.D.