Houston (February 15, 2008) — American Medical Association President Ron Davis, M.D., was the keynote speaker at the 3rd annual invitation-only Amigos de las Américas (AMIGOS) Executive Luncheon on Feb.13 at the Federal Reserve Bank, 1801 Allen Parkway, in Houston. Davis was inaugurated as the 162nd AMA President in June 2007. A board-certified preventive medicine physician from East Lansing, Michigan, Davis served as an AMIGOS Volunteer in Ecuador in 1973. His work administering vaccines to Latin American children sparked his interest in medicine.

“My experience with AMIGOS reinforced and strengthened my commitment to service and provided me with a unique opportunity to experience cultural exchange,” Davis said. “AMIGOS is an outstanding organization that inspires young people to make a positive difference in the world and that serves thousands of people in Latin America.”    
About 125 international business and civic leaders attended the event. Allied Waste, a long-time supporter of AMIGOS, sponsored the event. Allied Waste Director of Infrastructure, Gary McQuiston, also spoke at the event, and area business leader George Donnelly was the master of ceremonies.

The luncheon was held in conjunction with the AMIGOS 2008 Gala at 6:30 p.m. on March 1 at the Hilton Houston Post Oak, 2001 Post Oak Blvd. The Gala will honor Michael and Lucia Cordúa, owners of several of the top South American cuisine restaurants in Houston— Amazón Grill, Américas, Artista and Churrascos. Pete and Denise Garcia will chair the event. Pete Garcia is former Vice President of Latin American Affairs for Continental Airlines. For more information, visit the Gala website.

View photos from the 2008 Gala.
View photos from the 2008 Executive Luncheon.