What You Missed in Branson

Wow Bloggers! What a great time we had at the Branson Landing for the Missouri Chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association State Meeting. Despite the devastating flooding in the area, a great opportunity for learning and professional interaction was promoted in the Hilton Convention Center. The food was tremendous, particularly the luncheon at the business meeting on Saturday, and I had a rather tasty omelet Saturday morning from room service. I saw many colleagues and peers from Rockhurst University and Ozark Technical Community college both of which brought students down to grow and develop as professionals. Ironically, the student session on Saturday evening was mostly filled by Rockhurst students, who then elected themselves to state office. Two of our students were at the student function and one even won $50 for showing up. If you went, I thank you for your efforts, your integrity and your professionalism. Tim Lyons, current Treasurer and APTA liaison to the Missouri Chapter, spoke at the luncheon on Saturday. He talked about some leadership imperatives that the APTA is promoting as well as grass roots marketing efforts. I found it interesting and a bit disappointing that he reported that only 34% of licensed PT professionals across the country are members of the professional association. I can't think of any good reason for me not to be a member. Your membership, support and professional participation is an obligation and part of what it means to be a professional. I hope and pray that at some point in time each of you will also come to a realization that there is no good reason for you not to be a member as well.

Together with you in His service!

slesh