NCS 83rd Annual Meeting
November 9 – 14, 2009
Camelback Inn, A JW Marriott Resort & Spa
Scottsdale, Arizona

President’s Message

Stephen Y. Nakada, MD

My wife Deanna and I have been thrilled planning this year’s North Central Section meeting in Scottsdale, Arizona, at the legendary Camelback Inn. November is the perfect time to be in Scottsdale, just as things start to cool in the Midwest. The Camelback Inn is an absolutely first class resort, and the perfect location to bring family and friends to enjoy the warm weather, the beauty, and all that Scottsdale has to offer.

The scientific program will be superb, and I am delighted that a record number of abstracts were received. This year’s meeting honoree is Dr. David T. Uehling, a 40-year member of our Section and my first chairman in Madison. We have secured excellent guest speakers, including Drs. Margaret Pearle, Glenn Preminger, Dean Assimos, Ray Leveillee, Steven Schlossberg and Ron Rabinowitz. Meeting highlights will include the terrific pre-meeting sessions on health policy and hybrid live laparoscopic and robotic surgery. The meeting itself will be deep in content and broad in scope, as always. We will again have bizarre and interesting cases and the Urology Bowl competition. A special competition with the residents from Arizona programs has also been arranged. My Presidential Address will be a 20-year retrospective of the Section, and who knows, you may be included!

The recreation and social options in Scottsdale are unparalleled. There will be great golf, tennis, and social events. Evening highlights will include a Southwestern themed Welcome Reception, featuring bull rides and a cowboy show. Other local attractions include the Heard Museum and the Desert Botanical Gardens. I must also remind you that the spa at the Camelback Inn is rated as one of the top 25 in the world. The combination of this beautiful resort, perfect location, and timing, make this meeting one that cannot be beat!

Deanna and I would like to express sincerest thanks to Secretary Howard Winfield, MD, Local Arrangements Chair Couple, Dr. Manoj and Mary Monga, Treasurer Peter Knapp, MD, Past President Jay Hollander, MD, and of course WJ Weiser and Associates. We look forward to seeing all of you in Scottsdale!

2009 NCS Needs, Objectives and CME Accreditation

Needs Assessment
The field of urology continues to rapidly grow. Urologic abnormalities can be present with a myriad of clinical symptoms and signs. Thus, accurate evaluation, differential diagnoses and disease management, which meet current standards of care, require ongoing review of the presentations of various urologic abnormalities. In addition, the appropriate use of safe and cost-effective imaging modalities as well as various pharmacologic, minimally invasive, and operative management options are paramount to the safety of our urologic patients. Advancements in medical science and progress in management of various urologic diseases require basic and clinical research. Presentation and discussion of such peer-reviewed investigations provide cutting-edge updates for practicing clinicians and essential feedback to researchers on the practical applications and translation of their investigations to clinical practice. Finally, the program was created using available membership feedback from previous meeting surveys. Specifically, socioeconomic issues, practice patterns and future of urology issues were all emphasized in the program in addition to the typical science. Furthermore, trends in minimally invasive therapy, new advances in uro-oncologic pharmacotherapy as well as preparatory early morning courses on robotic surgery, single port access as well as updates on bladder cancer, neuromodulation and adrenal pathophysiology and surgery will be offered. With increasing pressure from Capitol Hill with respect to health care reform, our AUA Course of Choice this year relates to urology practice, governance, recruitment and physician phase-out. Round table discussion will be undertaken related to health care reform.

Educational Objectives
At the conclusion of the meeting participants should be able to:

• Recognize clinical presentation and treatment options of various urologic abnormalities
• List the various minimally invasive treatment options for BPH and their risks/benefits
• Review the current evaluation and management of neuromodualtion
• Review urologic laparoscopic applications in adult and pediatric patients, and receive an introduction to single-port and natural orifice laparoscopic interventions
• Evaluate data pertaining to various pharmacologic, surgical and medical treatment options for female voiding dysfunction and urinary incontinence
• Evaluate presented data comparing treatment options for testis tumors
• Report current medical and surgical evaluation and management options for urolithiasis
• Recognize new and modified treatments for erectile dysfunction, infertility, and penile/urethral pathology
• Identify current and novel treatment options for complex urethral and ureteral stricture disease as well as genitourinary organ trauma
• Evaluate results of various laparoscopic approaches and techniques for benign and malignant urologic disease
• Interpret research results and clinical series on management of prostate cancer and early diagnosis/screening techniques for prostate cancer in various patient populations
• Review common pediatric urologic diseases and treatment updates
• Explain prognostic significance and treatment options of various stages and grades of bladder cancer in addition to urinary diversion approaches
• Describe and analyze socioeconomic and health policy issues affecting urologic training and clinical practice
• Recall an update on ablative therapies in urology, focusing primarily on renal cell cancer
• Identify issues related to the future of urology practice through a presidential debate
• Assess application and results of robotic surgery, in particular prostate procedures
• Review and describe surgical steps of various robotic, laparoscopic and endoscopic procedures through observation of hybrid surgery (pre-recorded, unedited surgery)

Accreditation
The American Urological Association (AUA) is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

The AUA takes responsibility for the content, quality, and scientific integrity of this CME activity.

Credit Designation
The American Urological Association designates this educational activity for a maximum of 29.00 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

AUA Disclosure Policy
As a provider accredited by the ACCME, the AUA must ensure balance, independence, objectivity and scientific rigor in all its activities.

All faculty participating in an educational activity provided by the AUA are required to disclose to the provider any relevant financial relationships with any commercial interest. The AUA must determine if the faculty’s relationships may influence the educational content with regard to exposition or conclusion and resolve any conflicts of interest prior to the commencement of the educational activity. The intent of this disclosure is not to prevent faculty with relevant financial relationships from serving as faculty, but rather to provide members of the audience with information on which they can make their own judgments.

Unlabeled or Unapproved Use of Drugs or Devices
It is the policy of the AUA to require the disclosure of all references to unlabeled or unapproved uses of drugs or devices prior to the presentation of educational content. The audience is advised that this continuing medical education activity may contain reference(s) to unlabeled or unapproved uses of drugs or devices. Please consult the prescribing information for full disclosure of approved uses.

Disclaimer
The opinions and recommendations expressed by faculty, authors, and other experts whose input is included in this program are their own and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of the AUA.

Evidence Based Content
As a provider of continuing medical education accredited by the ACCME, it is the policy of the AUA to review and certify that the content contained in this CME activity is valid, fair, balanced, scientifically rigorous, and free of commercial bias.

Special Assistance / Dietary Needs
The American Urological Association (AUA), an organization accredited for Continuing Medical Education (CME), complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act § 12112(a). If any participant is in need of special assistance or has any dietary restrictions, a written request should be submitted at least one month in advance. For additional assistance with your request please call (847) 517-1544.

Secretary’s Report

Howard N. Winfield, MD

Summer has finally arrived in the Midwest and we are putting the finishing touches on the program for the NCS 2009 Annual Meeting to be held at the Camelback Inn in Scottsdale, Arizona on November 9 - 14, 2009.

Despite the troubled financial times that we have all experienced over the last year, we are expecting outstanding attendance at the meeting, with over 230 abstracts to be presented in podium, poster or video format. In the same format as last year, the discussants of each podium session will give a short “take-home message”. Our invited guest speakers include Drs. Margaret Pearle, Glenn Preminger, Dean Assimos, Raymond Leveillee, Ronald Rabinowitz, and Steven Schlossberg, all of who are authoritative leaders in their respective fields of sub-specialization. Due to the increased importance of health care reform and practice preservation, our AUA Course of Choice will be directed by Dr. Steven Schlossberg on the morning of Monday, November 9th. This will be followed on Monday afternoon by Hybrid Live Surgery, where nationally recognized NCS surgeons will present unedited videos of surgeries ranging from single port access surgery (SPAS), robotic surgery, and holmium laser prostate enucleation (HOLEP) to incontinence procedures. Using this format, the presenting surgeon will be able to easily answer questions from the audience, fast forward, rewind or pause as desired! Tuesday, November 10th will be the sports day, followed in the afternoon (4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.) by the Young Urologist Session.

The early morning courses, held Wednesday through Friday, from 6:30 a.m. – 7:30 a.m., are designed to give a rapid one-hour, up-to-date overview on the subjects of robotic surgery, bladder cancer, bladder neuromodulation, adrenal pathophysiology and surgery, as well as SPAS/NOTES. We are fortunate to have a number of medical education lunch seminars covering important subjects and are fully supported by our industry partners.

On Friday, November 13th, we will again have the Presidential Round Table Debate, including AUA President Anton Bueschen, MD, AUA Secretary Robert Flanigan, MD, AUA Secretary-Elect Glenn Preminger, MD, AUA Treasurer Richard Memo, MD and AUA Past President Larry Ross, MD. I am certain that our NCS president, Stephen Nakada, MD, will pose an interesting series of poignant questions to the panel. This debate will be followed by an introduction and honoring of Dr. David Uehling, who is a long time members of the Section. On the morning of Saturday, November 14th we will have a robust program, finishing again with a two-round, fast moving Resident Bowl. We are again seeking the programs with the “top gun” residents within the North Central Section.

The Camelback Inn is an amazing setting for what is anticipated to be an enjoyable NCS social program. Golf, tennis, swimming, biking and shopping are only a few of the many activity options that are available in this locale. Our Local Arrangements Chair Couple, Dr. Manoj and Mary Monga, along with WJ Weiser and Associates, have put together a spectacular social program. The banquet on Saturday evening at the Camelback Inn, hosted by Dr. Stephen and Deanna Nakada, will be extremely elegant.

I am now almost two-thirds of the way through my secretarial post, so we will therefore be electing a secretary-elect at the November meeting. In addition, Dr. Gary Kirsch will be taking over the reins as treasurer of the Section from our current treasurer, Dr. Peter Knapp. We all owe Peter a huge debt of gratitude for steering us safely through what could appropriately be classified as “class-five rapid financial waters”.

Unfortunately, our AUA North Central Section Endowment Research Scholar Award recipient, Dr. Matthew Simmons, elected to not pursue this opportunity. Fortunately, the AUA reviewers considered the merits of other applications and we are delighted to announce that Dr. Ted Skolarus will be our Section Scholar. His research project entitled “Prostate Cancer Expenditures: Variations and Implications” will be under the mentorship of John Wei, MD.

Finally, the NCS submitted the names of many of our Section leaders for AUA 2008 - 2009 Awards. This year Richard D. Williams, MD, of Iowa City, won the coveted Hugh Hampton Young Award. We are extremely proud of Dick and we send our heart-felt congratulations.

In closing, Lori and I wish you all a wonderful summer and look forward to seeing everyone in Scottsdale, Arizona, November 9 - 14, 2009.

Treasurer’s Report

Peter M. Knapp, Jr., MD

The NCS Board met at the interim meeting in Chicago on January 31, 2009 to continue work on the upcoming NCS annual meeting November 9 - 14, 2009 in Scottsdale, Arizona.

The 2008 financial report included both the annual meeting cash surplus and the Educational Fund annual performance. A significant operational cash surplus from the 2008 annual meeting partially offset the asset depreciation in the NCS Educational Fund. Non-for-profit organizations such as the NCS and AUA were not immune to the market decline of 2008, which offset much of the appreciation seen in previous years. Financial success of the annual meeting and the prudent investing in the Educational Fund allow us to continue our important educational mission for our membership.

The Educational Fund in 2009 has enjoyed the modest market improvement seen in recent months. After posting asset depreciation of -31.4% in 2008, the Educational Fund has appreciated 6.73% in 2009 through May 31, 2009. The NCS Educational Fund performance has outpaced the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) returns of -0.4% and the S&P index return of 4.5%. The Merril Lynch Costos Kelly group has kept us well informed of their investment strategy and recommendations as they attempt to strategically manage the fund for asset protection and modest growth.

NCS President Dr. Stephen Nakada and Secretary Dr. Howard Winfield are working together to plan another outstanding NCS Annual Meeting in Scottsdale, Arizona. Their combined ingenuity and expertise will ensure another outstanding NCS Annual Meeting with innovative academic programs and discussions. Local Arrangements chairman, Dr. Manoj Monga, is working to ensure an outstanding meeting venue in the comfortable surroundings of the Camelback Inn in Scottsdale, Arizona and is looking forward to everyone’s early registration and attendance at the meeting.

As I conclude my tenure as NCS treasurer later this year, I would like to thank the NCS membership and Board of Directors for their assistance and support. The continued commitment to build a strong professional organization has been an inspiration and can be credited to all of our membership. I have appreciated the opportunity to help carry on the great traditions of the North Central Section and thank you for the honor and privilege to serve as your treasurer. Special thanks also goes to Wendy Weiser and Janet Ward of WJ Weiser and Associates who made my work as NCS treasurer infinitely easier given the complexity of our organization.

Please look ahead and mark your calendars for the upcoming NCS annual meeting November 9 - 14, 2009. I look forward to seeing all of you in Scottsdale.

About Scottsdale, Arizona

The 83rd Annual Meeting of the NCS will be held in the beautiful desert paradise of Scottsdale, Arizona. Scottsdale, named after Major Winfield Scott, was founded on February 26, 1910. It has preserved its Western roots while becoming one of the fastest growing cities in Arizona. Visitors come from around the world to experience this mix of Old West values and contemporary luxuries. It is known for its art galleries, craft shops and golf courses, and is a popular retirement/tourist community featuring numerous cultural activities.

Attractions

Scottsdale hosts unique attractions that are sure to keep any visitor entertained all day and well into the night. The art enthusiast will feel right at home in Scottsdale, a city that houses more than 125 galleries, museums and art festivals. The area’s most popular attractions include the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West, and the Scottsdale Center for Performing Arts.

Take advantage of the gorgeous Scottsdale weather by partaking in outdoor activities. Located in the thriving Sonoran Desert, Scottsdale’s sunny skies and calm weather make it easy to experience the beauty of Arizona. The city offers a wide variety of scenic trails, eco-tours, horseback riding treks, mountain biking excursions and water sports, such as river rafting and kayaking.

If you are searching for more “kid friendly” attractions, two great options are the Rawhide Western Town & Steakhouse at Wild Horse and the Phoenix Zoo, one of the nation’s largest non-profit zoological parks.

Golf

The Scottsdale area is home to nearly 200 golf courses which have hosted legends such as Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Kirk Triplett and Tom Weiskopf – many of whom are Scottsdale residents. While you’re here, take the opportunity to advance your game at one of Scottsdale’s celebrated golf schools, or upgrade your gear at some of the best retailers and pro shops in the country.

Shopping

With more than 5,500 retail stores, malls, boutiques and outlets, Scottsdale offers one of the country’s finest retail experiences. At the Scottsdale Fashion Square, 2 million square feet of upscale shopping, dining and entertainment space is spread over more than 225 stores, including favorites like Kate Spade, Juicy Couture, Burberry, Tiffany & Co., Salvatore Ferragamo and Louis Vuitton. The Scottsdale Waterfront is located across Camelback Road and houses sophisticated shops situated amongst several restaurants. Old Town is home to the Marshall Way Arts District as well as shopkeepers selling quality Native American crafts, offering everything from hand-woven Navajo rugs to Zuni silver jewelry. The Fifth Avenue Arts District offers a wide selection of art galleries, shops and dining establishments.

Dining and Nightlife

Scottsdale boasts one of the highest concentrations of internationally recognized restaurants, including Sea Saw, Mosaic, and Deseo at the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa. No matter what type of cuisine patrons are craving, they will not leave Scottsdale unsatisfied.

Downtown Scottsdale houses more than 50 wine bars, lounges, dance clubs and performing arts venues. Axis/Radius and Myst are great choices for visitors who like to dance the night away. For the wine connoisseur, Kazimierz World Wine Bar, Fine’s Cellar, Su Vino Winery or Tapino Kitchen & Wine Bar may be the ideal dinning experience. If you are in search of a country western theme, head over to the Rusty Spur Saloon or Handlebar J Restaurant & Saloon for live music, cold beer and an authentic Old West atmosphere.

Scottsdale Weather

Scottsdale boasts some of the best weather is the country. The average high temperature in Scottsdale in November is 77°F while the average low is 46°F.

Message from the Local Arrangements Chair Couple

Dr. Manoj and Mary Monga, MD

Mary and I would like to take this opportunity to invite you to the 83rd Annual Meeting of the North Central Section of the AUA in sunny Scottsdale, Arizona. Drs. Nakada and Winfield and the Planning Committee have arranged a fantastic meeting agenda, at an outstanding venue. The warmth of the sun and the warm hearts of the people will welcome you to Arizona and this AAA Five-Diamond resort. The Camelback Inn, A JW Marriott Resort & Spa is a picturesque location that invites adults and children to explore the Wild West. The property is the home of a full-service spa, recognized as one of the top 100 spas in the world. Activities for children include the Jackrabbit Swimming Pool, the children’s playground, complete with slides and swings, and the Pitch N’ Putt zone.

We hope you and your family will join us in Scottsdale!

Meeting Format

This year’s meeting will run from Monday, November 9th through Saturday, November 14th, 2009. Monday will feature a symposium on practice management in the morning, followed by the interactive Hybrid Live Surgeries in the afternoon. Tuesday is sports day, featuring tennis and golf and will be followed by the Young Urologists Session. Other sports options include a hike up Camelback Mountain, taking a dip in one of two heated pools, or taking a bike ride along one of Scottsdale’s bike trails.

The highly informative early morning Breakfast Sessions will be offered on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, beginning at 6:30 a.m. each day. The General Sessions will kick off at 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday with an introductory welcome from Dr. Stephen Nakada, the NCS president. Sessions will run from 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. in the form of podium and poster presentations, interspersed with special guest lectures, point / counter-point and panel discussions on both days. Saturday morning, November 14th, will consist of podium presentations, Bizarre and Interesting Cases, a special lecture and, back for its third year, the North Central Section Resident Bowl. The scientific meeting will conclude on Saturday, with award presentations and final remarks by the incoming president, Steven W. Siegel, MD.

Spouse / Guest Hospitality

The Spouse / Guest Hospitality Suite will be located in the Manor House, and remain open between 7:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Breakfast will be available daily for registered spouses / guests (badges are required).

Evening Functions, Optional Tours

NCS President Stephen Nakada and his wife Deanna will greet members and guests at the President’s Welcome Reception and Wine Tasting at the Camelback Inn on Tuesday evening. Our Theme Night will take place at Mummy Mountain, on the Camelback Inn property on Thursday, November 12th, and will feature Western cuisine, a gunfight at dusk, a Brahma bull to unseat the most hardened cowboy/cowgirl amongst you, and a beautiful mountainside campfire overlooking Camelback Mountain. Children are welcome! Finally, the Annual Banquet, on Friday, November 13th, will be held at the Camelback Inn in the Arizona Ballroom, beginning with cocktails at 6:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 7:30 p.m. This event will feature delicious Western culinary delights, music and dancing.

There are a variety of tour options in the Scottsdale area ranging from touring Frank Lloyd Wright’s 600-acre Taliesin West to visiting the Wrigley Mansion with its ornate decorations and fine art. Rejuvenate at the Desert Bloom Botanical Garden or rev your engines for a 4 x 4 off-road adventure. Explore Native American culture at the Heard Museum or bring an extra suitcase for a shopping spree in Old Town or Fashion Square. There is something for all ages and tastes!

Aerobic Walk

Dates: Mornings of November 11 – 14, 2009
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Location: Depart from the Manor House (Spouse/Guest Room)
Get a fresh start to your morning with aerobic walking. Renew acquaintances and meet new friends! Meet at the Manor House at 7:45 a.m. each morning for an invigorating walk through the beautiful grounds of the Camelback Inn and possibly tackle Camelback Mountain!
Cost: No charge

Evening Functions

One ticket to each evening function is included in your registration fee.

Welcome Reception and Wine Tasting

Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Exhibit Hall, Arizona Ballroom, Camelback Inn
Attire: Casual
Enjoy a nice evening in the NCS Exhibit Hall tasting fantastic wine and trying southwestern cuisine as you stroll through the hall talking with our NCS supporters.

President’s Reception / Theme Night

Date: Thursday, November 12, 2009
Time: 6:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Location: Mummy Mountain, Camelback Inn
Attire: Casual (Please note: This venue is outdoors and the ground is gravel; comfortable shoes are recommended.)
Enter this quaint old western town, nestled in the shadows of the great Camelback Mountain, and marvel at the sweeping vistas illuminated by fire and starlight. Gather around one of the fire pits and talk to your fellow colleagues or try your hand at one of the cowboy games. Ever try to rope a steer? Find out just how quick you are at the quick draw. Master the art of shooting in the Shooting Gallery. And once you’re king (or queen) of the mountain, be sure to enjoy the fabulous barbeque. Then dance the night away as you learn how to line dance from some real cowboys.

Annual Banquet

Date: Friday, November 13, 2009
Time: 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Cocktails and Hors d’ Oeuvres
          7:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Dinner and Entertainment
Location: Arizona Ballroom, Camelback Inn
Attire: Black Tie Invited
Say good-bye to your colleagues and friends as you dance the night away enjoying the cuisine of Chef Paul O’Connor.

Optional Events

Optional and sporting events are not included in your registration fee.

Optional and sporting events are filled on a first-come, first-served basis; therefore, it is recommended that you preregister to avoid
disappointment. In addition, some tours may have minimum and maximum limitations. The NCS reserves the right to cancel tours and
refund payment if registration does not meet the minimum number of persons required per tour, at least three weeks prior to the meeting. Because guarantees will be based on advanced ticket sales, refunds or ticket exchanges will not be available two weeks prior to or on- site at the meeting.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Golf at the Camelback Golf Club: Padre Course
7:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
From the mind of world-renowned golf course architect Arthur Hills comes a course that promises an enjoyable and unforgettable golf adventure. The Padre Course features towering trees, subtle landforms and impressive bunkering to sharpen your game. This 6,903-yard, par 72 design is known for its strategic layout, challenging water holes, and had its 18th hole voted the best water hole in the state by Arizona Golf Magazine.

Cost: $165.00 per person (Includes continental breakfast and lunch buffet, reserved tee times at Padre Golf Course, green fees for each guest, cart rental on a shared basis, pre-determined pairings coordination and distribution, organized scoring format and rules sheet, customized scorecards, customized cart signs, gratuity – golf course staff, golf course bag handling and club cleaning, and transportation.)

4 x 4 Off-Road Adventure
8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Immerse in the unspoiled splendors of the Sonoran Desert as a professional guide shifts into 4-wheel drive and brings to life the lore of this ancient land. Your guides will assist you in exploring the canyons and ridges as they 4-wheel the rugged trails through a forest of 2,300 species of perennial plants. This is not only home to the Gila Monsters, rattlesnakes, but to bears, lions, deer and javelina as well. You will also be led through this beautiful desert on botanical walks, where along the way they will identify native cacti, desert flora and fauna. You will be escorted via caravan by the most “ornery” guides, authentically outfitted in Native American or cowboy finery. These guides are the best 4-wheel drivers around and will take guests on the “best darn tootin’”, “take-your breath away” ride in the west! You will be fascinated by Arizona history and legend and entertained while your guide spins colorful tales of pioneers from Arizona.

Cost: $125.00 per person (Includes private use of off-road 4 x 4 vehicles, 5-6 guests per vehicle, transportation to and from resort, professional Western or Native American outfitted driver guides, beverages and transportation.)

Tennis at the Camelback Inn
10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
An awe-inspiring background adds a whole new dimension to your tennis game at the Camelback Inn’s Tennis Pavilion, featuring six allweather courts. Enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience of batting a ball around in the shadow of Camelback Mountain, an ideal setting whether you are a serious player looking for a challenging game or simply want to hit a few balls for relaxation.

Cost: $65.00 per person (Includes box lunch, bottled water, tennis balls, and coordinator. *Does not include racket.)

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Have You Heard? Cancelled
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Welcome to the internationally acclaimed Heard Museum! A “must see” for all visitors to the Valley, the museum offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the rich cultures and art of Native Americans. Spacious exhibit galleries and beautiful outdoor, bricked courtyards feature outstanding traditional and contemporary Native American art.

Originally the home of Dwight and Maie Heard, the couple housed their personal collection of Native American artifacts to enjoy and share with friends. The museum is known today for its extensive collection of artifacts, fine art, unique exhibits and innovative programming. Native People of the Southwest is the museum’s award-winning exhibit, filled with thousands of the finest pieces from their permanent collection, including baskets, jewelry, pottery and textile. A special attraction is the Kachina Doll Gallery, showcasing Kachina dolls from the private collections of the late Senator Barry M. Goldwater, and businessman Fred Harvey.

Cost: $58.00 per person (Includes admission to the Heard Museum, docent guided tour of the Heard Museum, and transportation.)

Thursday, November 12, 2009

The Art of Shopping Cancelled
9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Love to shop? This tour is perfect for guests with a penchant for shopping! Phoenix/Scottsdale is a shopper’s paradise, known for some of the finest shopping in the Southwest.

Scottsdale Fashion Square
Welcome to Scottsdale Fashion Square, the Southwest’s distinctive address for premier shopping, dining and entertainment. Boasting nearly two million square feet of luxury shops and fashion department stores, Scottsdale Fashion Square offers scores of prestigious stores, including Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, J Crew, Coach and Talbots. We will supply an expert Arizona guide to share “a wealth of stories” about the area and your deluxe transportation; guests supply the “vim and vigor” and the credit cards. This fun and easy shopping tour is custom-designed for suitability to your group.

Cost: $40.00 per person (Includes shopping maps and brochures, uniformed staff and ground transportation.)

Desert Bloom – An Insider’s View of the Botanical Gardens
1:00 p.m. – 5: 00 p.m.
Nestled among the buttes of Papago Park, Desert Botanical Garden is home to the world’s largest and most diverse collection of succulent plants, including rare and endangered species indigenous to the Southwest. One of only a few botanical gardens accredited by the American Association of Museums, the garden is situated on 145 acres – with 35 acres of outdoor exhibits dedicated to providing visitors an inspirational and educational experience. Desert Botanical Garden is one of the best-maintained gardens in the world, enjoyed by local residents and visitors worldwide. You will witness how plants, birds, reptiles, insects, mammals, and people, can live in harmony with the desert. Each trail is specially designed with descriptive signage, investigation stations for hands-on interaction, and beautifully surfaced paths. On the garden’s docent-guided tour, you will see how nature adapts plant life to an existence where there is very little water.

Cost: $98.00 per person (Includes admission to the Desert Botanical Garden, Desert Botanical Garden map for each guest, and transportation.)

Friday, November 13, 2009

Wrigley Mansion Cancelled
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Welcome to the Wrigley Mansion Club! Built between 1929 and 1931 by chewing gum magnate, William Wrigley, Jr., the mansion sits atop a 100-foot knoll with commanding views of the mountains and city below. Embracing elements of Spanish, California Monterey and Mediterranean architecture, the mansion stands as a monument to an elegance and opulence seldom seen or experienced in one’s everyday encounters. The Wrigley Mansion reaches beyond the ordinary into the extraordinary. Built as a gift for his wife, Ada, the mansion was one of the five Wrigley estates throughout the world. Wrigley and his wife used the mansion as their “winter cottage” with 16,850 square feet and 24 rooms. The Wrigley’s took great care in building and decorating their home. Details such as the magnificent Steinway grand player piano, the Rotunda at the circular staircase, and more than 3 million dollars of fine art and antiques were chosen to impress presidents and other dignitaries who visited the family and are now displayed for your guests’ enjoyment. While preserving the best of the past, the Wrigley Mansion shines with an elegance and grace that only age and quality can achieve. Thirteen gracious rooms of varying sizes, each with its own unique style, offer a complete range of flexibility and services accommodating groups of up to 1,500 guests. The mansion offers breathtaking views and the elegance and sophistication of an era gone by.

Cost: $59.00 per person (Includes admission to Wrigley Mansion, docent guided one hour tour of Wrigley Mansion and transportation.)

The Wright Stuff
2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Visitors to Taliesin West will not see a museum, but rather a remarkably vital and active community of architects and students working together to maintain Wright’s vision. Today 70 people live, work and study at Taliesin West. You will experience firsthand Wright’s brilliant ability to integrate indoor and outdoor spaces. The Insight Tour will include various rooms at the home as well as an explanation of how the site relates to the natural desert. A general overview of Wright’s basic theories of design, history of the site and activities of Taliesin Fellowship community life is bound to astound.

Cost: $80.00 per person (Includes admission to Taliesin West, one and a half hour guided tours, and transportation.)

Additional Events on Your Own

Camelback Inn Spa
The award-winning spa at Camelback Inn blends the indulgences of a full-service destination spa within a spectacular resort, offering the ambiance and magic of the Sonoran Desert. Featuring a full complement of spa offerings, the 32,000-square-foot world-class spa includes a state-of-the-art fitness center, 32 treatment rooms and Scottsdale’s only spa restaurant, Sprouts. Panoramic views of crimson-hued Camelback and Mummy Mountains, fiery Arizona sunsets, and the picturesque desert landscaping can be enjoyed from the Olympic-size lap pool and outdoor Jacuzzi. Guests experience one-of-a-kind spa treatments inspired by the techniques and nature-based ingredients of indigenous Native American cultures.

Recognized as one of the top 100 best spas in the world in the premier spa guide, 100 Best Spas of the World, the spa at Camelback Inn is perennially voted “best spa and best massage in Phoenix” by the readers of Phoenix Magazine as well as “best spa” by Scottsdale Life.

For reservations, please contact the spa at (480) 596-7040 or (800) 922-2635.

Spouse / Guest Hospitality Suite
The Spouse / Guest Hospitality Suite will be located in the Manor House. Breakfast will be available every morning (7:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.) for registered spouses and guests (all children must be registered with a badge to enter the suite.) There will be a representative from PRA Scottsdale in the room each morning to assist you with any questions you may have about the area and/or offered tours.

Hotel Information

The 83rd annual meeting will be held at the Camelback Inn, A JW Marriot Resort, where special room rates have been arranged for meeting attendees. Discounted room rates are available until October 2, 2009, so make your reservations early!

Camelback Inn, A JW Marriott Resort & Spa
5402 East Lincoln Drive
Scottsdale, Arizona 85253
Phone: (480) 948-1700
Toll Free: (800) 24-CAMEL
Fax: (480) 951-8469
www.camelbackinn.com

Rate: $280 single/double occupancy. All rooms are quoted exclusive of applicable state and local taxes, which are currently 12%.

Cut-Off Date: The cut-off date to make reservations at the discounted group rate is October 2, 2009. You are encouraged to make your reservation early, as the hotel may sell out before this date. After this date, reservations will be accepted on a space-available basis and higher rates may apply.

Reservations
Individual attendees can make their room reservations by calling (800) 242-2635 or (480) 948-1700. Please make sure to reference the North Central Section of the AUA to take advantage of the group rate. A deposit equal to one night’s stay is required to hold each individual’s reservation. Such deposit shall serve to confirm the reservation for the date(s) indicated and, upon check-in, shall be applied to the first night of the reserved stay. This deposit is refundable if notice is received at least twenty-four hours prior to arrival and a cancellation number is obtained.

Travel & Transportation

Airport Information
The Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), the sixth-busiest airport in the USA, is the principal gateway for Phoenix, the capital of Arizona. More than eighteen airlines serve PHX due to the convenient access to relaxing resort hotels, high quality golf courses and the Arizona cities of Tucson, Prescott, Sedona, and Flagstaff. Located surprisingly close, just three miles, to the city center, the airport gives easy access to the wealth of first-rate hotels and resorts that flourish in Phoenix and the Valley of the Sun. For more information visit: www.phoenix-phx.com

Rental Car Information
Avis Rent-A-Car is the official rental car company for the NCS Annual Meeting. You are not required to use them, but we encourage you to take advantage of their special offer. You must return the car at the same renting location or additional surcharges may apply. All rates include unlimited free mileage. Rates do not include any state or local surcharges, tax, optional coverage or gas refueling charges. Weekend daily rates are available from 12:00 p.m. Thursday through 11:59 p.m. Monday. When making your reservations, dial (800) 331-1600 and mention code “J901055” and the North Central Section or visit the following link: https://www.avis.com/AvisWeb/reservation/ReservationsInitializer?&AWD_NUMBER=J901055.

Shuttle Service
Super Shuttle Service operates twenty-four hours a day on a time scheduled basis. It offers airport-to-door service. Vans depart at least every fifteen minutes to all areas of the Valley from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. with lesser frequencies from 9:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m. Reservations are required. You can reach Super Shuttle Service at (800) 258-3826.

Taxi Cab Services
Many taxi cab companies are permitted to operate at the Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix. Below are the names and phone numbers of a few of these companies:

AAA Cab: (602) 437-4000
Allstate: (602) 275-8888
Discount: (602) 266-1110

Childcare Services

A Child’s Garden
Phone: (480) 354-2122

• Licensed and bonded service
• All nannies are CPR trained
• $25 non-refundable fee per booking
• $17 for one child, $2 each additional child
• Four-hour minimum required

Arizona Lullaby Guild
Phone: (602) 852-0459
Phone: (602) 881-9490 (after hours)

• Licensed and bonded service
• Most nannies are CPR and first aid certified
• $12 for one child, $2 each additional child
• $5-6 transportation charge for each assignment
• Four-hour minimum required

Safe and Sound
Phone: (480) 430-7647 (mobile)

• Licensed and bonded service
• Accepts Visa and MasterCard only
• Most nannies are CPR and first aid certified
• $16.50 for one or two children
• $18.50 for three or four children
• $9 transportation charge for each assignment
• Four-hour minimum required

Please Note:

• Sitters must be paid by cash or credit card (if available)
• No room charges will be accepted
• 24-hour cancellation policy
• Prices subject to change

Job Postings
A job board will be available at this year’s meeting. If you are looking to hire someone, please bring copies of your announcement to the meeting to post on the job board. If you will not attend the meeting but would like to post a job opening, please email the position to Lori at lori@wjweiser.com by October 30, 2009. We will then post the position on the job board for you. Please include the necessary contact information on your job posting so that interested persons can contact you directly.

General Meeting Information

NCS Pre-Registration
The Executive Office of the North Central Section manages registration for the 83rd Annual Meeting of the North Central Section. Please call the NCS office at (847) 517-1544 if you have any questions.

Registration Fee Includes:

• Scientific Sessions
• Continental Breakfasts
• Breakout Sessions
• Technical Exhibit Entrance
• One Ticket to Welcome Reception
• One Ticket to President’s Theme Night
• One Ticket to Annual Banquet
• Box Lunch  

Spouse / Guest Registration Fee Includes:

• Hospitality Suite
• One Ticket to Welcome Reception
• One Ticket to President’s Theme Night
• One Ticket to Annual Banquet

Deadline: October 16, 2009 is the deadline for receipt of the NCS Meeting Pre-Registration Form.

All registration forms received at the North Central Section Executive Office after October 16, 2009, will be considered on-site registration and will be assessed the on-site registration prices. All on-site registration in Scottsdale, Arizona will also be charged the higher, on-site registration prices.

Refunds: Requests for registration refunds must be submitted in writing to the NCS Executive Office and must be received by October 16, 2009. All refund requests will be subject to a $100 processing fee. NO REFUNDS will be made after October 16, 2009.

NCS Pre-Registrants: NCS pre-registrants will receive a complete registration packet onsite at the registration/information desk located off the hotel lobby. The packet will include badges, NCS social tickets, and general meeting information.

On-site Registration: On-site registration will be located at the Arizona Ballroom Foyer.