Message from the Director - Mary McCluskey - 6/23/08

       Well, the new massage licensing bill has been drafted!  It is in the comment stage for the profession.  I recommend that every massage therapist take the time to look at it carefully so we can either get behind it and support it or request changes before it goes to the legislature.  It is available at www.amtawi.org In addition to reading it we need massage therapists to help us get it passed.  There are some easy ways to help out your legislators to establish rapport with them and so they know who we are.  I just did the first one, here it is:  Between now and the first week in July all candidates for legilative seats (incumbents and new candidates) need to collect signatures from people in their districts.  This fall all Assembly seats are open as are even-numbered Senate seats.  By circulating and/or signing on of these nimination papers you are saying you believe the person should have the right to be on the fall ballot.  It does not commit you nor anyone else to vote for that person.  Doing this is a simple way to be an active part of a democracy.  To participate, all you need to do is contact your legislator(s) to request a blank nomination paper for them.  Follow the link to find out who your representatives are:  http://waml.legis.state.wi.us/

        Last week the night class and I had a beautiful time at the Lake Michigan shore to collect therapy stones for our Thermal Therapies class.  It is a challenge to collect all the shapes and sizes needed, but with time and guidance, the students found their tools.  They cleaned and sterilized them at home and came ready to learn how to use them the next class.  Hot stone therapy is one of those special treatments that just makes you glad to be alive!  It brings you back to your body, reminds you how good your skin and muscles can feel with heat, pressure, and attention from another person.  The students enjoyed learning this treatment which is enjoyable to receive and to give.