CHICAGO, IL, USA -- The planning committee for the 5th International Orthodontic Congress (IOC) has begun preparing informational materials for orthodontic societies that wish to hold receptions during the meeting, and the scientific advisory committee has begun planning the program.

The 5th IOC and first meeting of the WFO Council will take place in conjunction with the 100th Annual Session of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), April 29-May 3, 2000, in Chicago, IL, USA.

Although the individual societies will be responsible for the expenses incurred by the receptions, the AAO-IOC planning committee and AAO staff will help with the coordination of these receptions. In addition to receptions for orthodontic societies, several non-North American training programs have indicated interest in sponsoring a reception for their graduates and faculty. Initial plans are that these receptions will be held in or close to the WFO headquarters hotel. Receptions will be listed in the Annual Session On-Site Program. Specific information on the receptions will be sent out to orthodontic societies within the next few months.

In addition to the reception planning, the WFO Executive Committee has selected a group of 11 internationally recognized clinicians to serve as an advisory committee to develop an international scientific program. At this time, the members have been asked for their input on the program. The scientific sessions will be a main component of the meeting and will be coordinated with the AAO Annual Session Scientific Program.

Future issues of the WFO Gazette will include updates on the upcoming IOC meeting. In the meantime, begin planning your trip to Chicago. This city has something for everyone. Please refer to the article below for more information on Chicago and some of its attractions.