Dick Hale, Editor/Publisher
This is the 169th "Comment" that I have written in my nearly 15 years as Editor of Dental Economics. It also is the toughest one I`ve had to write. It`s hard to say goodbye from something you love, but after a journalistic career in which I`ve had "Editor" behind my name for more than 42 years, it is time to step away from the day-to-day pressures of publication. While I am vacating editorial responsibilities, I am staying on for a few months in a consulting role to ensure a smooth transition.
It has been a distinct privilege to serve as Editor of Dental Economics. Dentistry is a marvelous profession. It is no surprise to me that dentists rate in the top three of "most respected" occupations. You are Number One with me. The diversity, competence, professionalism, entrepreneurial spirit, generosity and genuine caring that thousands of you demonstrate on a regular basis have contributed to the unquestionable joy that I have derived from my involvement in the dental profession.
It would be impossible to name all of the many dentists, consultants and industry representatives with whom I have interacted over the years. A special thanks to Editorial Board members, past and present, and to all of the authors who have contributed to the magazine. It is the close involvement of dentists that keeps our editorial content relevant. Rest assured, with an experienced, professional staff and a publishing company dedicated to providing dentists with the information they need to enhance their personal and professional lives, the relevance and integrity of the magazine will keep Dental Economics at the forefront of required reading for successful dentists.
I hope that the many of you who have invited Nancy and I to visit you "when we have the time" have your guest rooms ready. In a few months, we will be hitting the road to renew acquaintances and to visit areas that we haven`t had time to see during the working years.
My sincere hope is that you have received some benefit from my writing, editing and article selection.
My time as Editor of Dental Economics has been very special. Thanks for the memories.
