January 2006

NOTE: The WCA Summit website contains more information about this important event.

WCA Summit a 'call to action'

"Subluxation‑based chiropractors know they are under siege and most want to do something about it," says Chris Cox, DC, a member of the World Chiropractic Alliance International Board of Governors and organizer of the 2006 WCA International Summit. "The problem is, they don't always know what to do. That's why they're flocking to the annual WCA event in Washington, DC."

Revolving around the theme of "To Protect and Serve," the WCA's International Summit ‑‑ set for May 4‑6 ‑‑ will offer a wide range of speakers, most of whom are preparing all‑new presentations. Most of the profession's best known leaders will be featured and there'll be a special appearance by James Sigafoose, DC.

As always, the main attraction of the event will be the intense spirit of camaraderie that comes from having a group of dedicated, principled chiropractors sharing their enthusiasm for the profession. "It's the one place you can go all year where you know others will respect and understand your choices," states Terry A. Rondberg, DC, WCA president. "You can make friends here that last a lifetime, and renew acquaintances with colleagues from around the globe."

A special feature this year will be presentations by several members of the RCS (Research & Clinical Science) International Scientific Advisory Panel, who will discuss the global, population‑ based research study they are conducting, and how it will impact every doctor of chiropractic in practice.

The list of DCs scheduled to speak includes:

On Friday evening, a talk by Dr. Sigafoose will be followed by an open mic philosophy session, so that all participants will have a chance to express their feelings about the philosophic basis of chiropractic.

The Summit will be held at the Marriott at Metro Center in downtown Washington, just minutes from all major attractions and offering easy access to Washington's Metro rail system just outside hotel.

On Thursday prior to the Summit, the Chiropractic Coalition will hold its annual Legislative Day at the Capitol. This free day‑long event provides DCs with an opportunity to meet and talk with US elected officials and other key government leaders.

In past years, the Coalition Legislative Day has included appearances by politicians such as Sen. Edward Kennedy, member of the Armed Services and Health, Education, Labor & Pensions Committees; Rep. Jeb Bradley of New Hampshire, who serves on the Armed Services, Budget, Veterans' Affairs and Small Business Committees; Rep. Bob Filner of California, who introduced a bill to ensure direct access to chiropractors for veterans in the VA system; and Rep. Don Manzullo of Illinois, considered one of the staunchest chiropractic supporters in Congress.

The Chiropractic Coalition, founded in November 2002 by three major chiropractic organizations ‑‑ the International Chiropractors Association (ICA), the World Chiropractic Alliance (WCA), and the Federation of Straight Chiropractors and Organizations (FSCO) ‑‑ brings together diverse subluxation‑based chiropractic organizations working in the best interest of the public and the profession.

Registration for the WCA International Summit is$399 for doctors, who may be accompanied by a spouse or CA at no extra charge. Additional non‑DC guests are $125 each. Student registration is $99. Registration includes buffet lunch each day and the Friday banquet dinner. To register, call 800‑347‑1011.