Spring/Summer 2013 - AMTA California Chapter

Newsletter of the 

American Massage Therapy 

Association, 

California Chapter 

Current Information For 

California’s Somatic 

Practitioners 

CALIFORNIA CURRENTS vol. 34, no. 2 

2013 

California 

Massage 

Educational 

Conference 

March 22-24, 2013 

Grand Sheraton 

Sacramento 

Conference Information & Registration 

chapter financials 

gold coast news 

volunteer opportunities 

classes and workshops 

officer’s training information 

upcoming board meeting dates 

what’s 

inside... 

conference wrap-up 

chapter awards 

president’s message 

new unit officers 

2013 delegates 

2013-14 chapter board 

national convention in september in fort worth 

run for a national office 

california currents - spring/summer 2013 

1

y Michael Roberson 

We just completed our annual Education Conference 

in Sacramento at the end of March. We ‘Experienced 

the Energy.’ If you missed this event, you missed a lot! 

Impressive workshops lead by exceptional presenters, a 

surprise keynote speaker, introductions of new products and 

resources in massage, recognition of outstanding service 

from our members, our elections, as well as time to connect 

to colleagues and make some new friends. All of this was 

squeezed into a single weekend. 

It all started with the Friday night welcoming reception 

hosted by the Greater Sacramento Area Unit. Saturday 

morning began with recognizing our Unit leadership and 

scholarship recipients. Professional scholarships went to 

Karen DeFrew Bruning (LA/SBU), Cathy Underwood 

(OCU) and Jeannie Martin (REU), and our Student 

Scholarships went to Cindy Pedrosa (OCU) and ### Rick 

Anderson (EBU). Our scheduled keynote speaker, Chris 

Voltarel, lost her voice and was unable to join us, so Jim 

Berns saved the day with his perspective on energy. 

The day then jumped into our educational workshops. Tim 

Harvey and Mark Kinney spoke on ‘Generating On-site 

Massage Income,’ James Waslaski started his Orthopedic 

Massage series for the lower body, and Oleg Bouimer 

demonstrated a different perspective in Integrative Pain 

Management. These exceptional teachers brought our 

attendees information that was never addressed in massage 

school classrooms. 

Getting to the Annual Business Meeting and Chapter 

Officer and Delegate elections filled our lunch break. We 

also recognized some of our outstanding members for their 

service: Jim Berns was not only our fill-in keynote speaker, 

but also received a well-deserved Myka Hungerford 

Excellence in Education Award. Chris Voltarel received 

the Bill Mueller Mentor of the Year Award. Our Immediate 

Past President, Melissa Martinie Colburn, was awarded 

the Chapter President’s Award. Stacey 

DeGooyer received the Government 

Activist Award. A Certificate of 

Appreciation went to Michael Kirk for 

his service as our Web Assistant and 

putting together our Gmail accounts, 

and also recognized were these Unit 

Service Award winners: Deb Tuck 

(REU), Cathy Underwood (OCU), 

Rick Anderson (EBU), Richard 

Lomeli (LA/SBU), and Pam Petty 

(GSA). Our highest award, The 

Chapter Meritorious Award went to 

Bernadette Murray for her continuous 

and tenacious dedication to this 

Chapter, the Greater Sacramento Area 

Unit and to our members in her role as 

Government Relations (GR) Chair. 

2 

Our President’s Perspective on the March Conference 

Our second day continued with a special keynote address 

by James Waslaski, after which we continued with our 

workshops. Lunchtime brought us an update on Government 

Relations with Bernadette Murray (GR Chair) and Jennifer 

Tannehill from Aaron Read and Associates (our lobbyist). 

As soon as lunch was done, it was back to the classroom to 

conclude our conference. 

There is no way this conference could ever come together 

without the huge support of our sponsors and exhibitors, and 

we thank World Class Massage Education, Symmetry 

for Health, Massage Envy, Topical Biomedics, Amethyst 

Biomat, Asteeza, Cloud Quilt & Creations, Cryoderm, 

doTERRA, My Massage Calendar, MyMassageMentor. 

com and Pure Touch Therapeutics. I extend my deep 

thanks to the Conference Planning Committee, chaired 

by Riya Suising, with members Brent Carter, Capitol Hill 

Management Service, Sara-Becca Smith, and your Chapter 

Board. Thanks also extend to our exhibitor coordinator Tom 

Benson, our Sergeant at Arms Bernita Braizer, our Board 

members, and our Chapter Office Administrator Sara-Becca 

Smith. A lot of hours of planning, contacting, recruiting, 

scheduling, and volunteering made this conference possible. 

Thank you! 

We look forward to hosting our 2014 California Educational 

Conference in the Los Angeles area. We will be providing 

you with more information on the conference in upcoming 

newsletters on our, Chapter website, and on our Facebook 

pages. Do not miss another conference. Such an opportunity 

for renowned educators, exhibitors, and networking in a 

central location is something to not be missed. 

The 2013-2014 

CALIFORNIA 

CHAPTER BOARD 

(l-r) President Michael Roberson, 1st VP Lisa Santoro, 3rd VP Sarah Lahti, Southern 

Rep Nathan O’Hara, Northern Rep Marcia Degalman, Treasurer Meredith Evans, 

2nd VP Patricia Rusert Gillette, Secretary Karen C. Russell 

california currents - spring/summer 2013

Chapter Meritorious Award 

Bernadette Murray, 

a Texan transplant to 

California, attended a 

Greater Sacramento 

Area (GSA) Unit 

Business Meeting, 

and was immediately 

drafted to serve 

as part of the Unit 

Board. Bernadette 

has continued over 

the years to serve as 

part of that Unit Board 

as Treasurer, Vice 

President, and as GSA 

Unit President. During 

this time, Bernadette 

began serving as assistant to the Government Relations 

Chair, where she self-identified as the GR Elf! When the 

position of Chair became vacant, she was fully prepared to 

step up as Government Relations Chair. No one could have 

known how qualified or committed she would prove to be. 

During her tenure we have seen our long-time dream for 

state regulation come true in the way of SB731, which 

created Business and Professions Code 10.5, Sections 

4600 through 4620 and the California Massage Therapy 

Council to vet and approve those wishing voluntary 

Certification. This process has provided the first-ever 

opportunity for legal credibility to massage practitioners, 

and statewide portability for massage professionals. In 

appointing Bernadette as the Government Relations Chair, 

the California membership gained an exceptionally keen 

mind for understanding legislative wording, the legislative 

process, the protocols for influencing lawmakers, and for 

teaching these skills to others. She sought the creation of 

the GR Task Force, a group to learn about, influence, and 

support workable regulations in local communities and at 

the state level. 

Bernadette has proven to be an incredible advocate for 

our AMTA-CA members and indeed for all massage 

professionals in California. Because of her total and 

tireless dedication to the work of massage, and to express 

our heartfelt appreciation of her work and personal 

sacrifices in further uplifting massage and its practitioners, 

we present Bernadette Murray with the highest honor 

available to us. 

“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask 

what makes you come alive and go out 

and do it. Because what the world needs 

is people who have come alive.” 

Howard Thurman 

Primary Instructor: 

Kate Jordan 

An outstanding, 

nationally recognized 

pregnancy massage 

therapist and educator. 

2013 CALIFORNIA 

SEMINAR TRAININGS: 

Los Angeles Area/ 

Hermosa Beach: 

August 22-28, 2013 

(Thursday - Sunday) 

Learn MedicaL Massage 

For Pregnancy 

Bodywork for the 

Childbearing Year ® 

provides the most comprehensive 

training in 

therapy for pregnancy, 

labor preparation, labor 

support, and the postpartum 

period. 

www.KateJordanSeminars.com 

Toll Free: 888-287-6860 

THE 2013 CALIFORNIA DELEGATES 

Lisa Santoro, Coordinator 

Mark Dixon 

Karen Boulanger 

Stacey deGooyer 

Marcia Degelman 

Silicon Valley Unit 

Orange County Unit 

Silicon Valley Unit 

Redwood Empire Unit 

Golden Gate Unit 

ALTERNATES: Rhonda Kutter, Golden Gate; Berni 

Brazier, Gold Coast; John Lambert, Greater Sacramento; 

Dorothy Schwartzburg, Redwood Empire; Bonnie Kelly, 

Silicon Valley. 

The House of Delegates Business Meeting will take place 

at the 2013 AMTA National Convention in Fort Worth, TX. 

The meeting starts on Wednesday, September 25 from 5 

-7:30 pm and continues on Thursday, September 26 from 

1:30 - 5:30 pm. Delegates must be present at the start of the 

meeting’s roll call. 

Watch for communication from these delegates on the 

2013 Recommendations and Position Statements, and let 

your voice be heard. 


3

President’s Award 

Melissa Martinie Colburn 

arrived in Sacramento expecting 

to go through a licensing process 

to practice massage. She was 

horrified to learn that every 

California community had its 

own rules and regulations, and 

she promptly set out on a path 

to change that. Her first step was 

to join the AMTA-California 

Chapter and attend a Chapter 

Board meeting. She then 

returned home excited to muster 

the AMTA-CA members in the Greater Sacramento Area 

to bring the Unit back to life! Melissa rebuilt that Unit and 

served as their President for several years. She continued 

her work to achieve California regulations, working with 

Beverley May in her then role as Government Relations 

Chair. Melissa was bound to help bring California into the 

ranks of states legitimizing our work with regulation for 

massage, thus setting us apart as true professionals. 

Melissa has the awesome ability to reach out to 

members and infect them with her passion. She welcomed 

newcomers from other states with open arms, and has been 

an amazing mentor to so many therapists. Melissa is an 

effective communicator and moderator of discussion. She is 

an inspiration and a model leader for therapists and for our 

profession. 

Melissa served most recently as our Chapter President 

until personal circumstances took her away to Washington 

DC, where her passion for massage continues and she 

currently serves as President of the DC Chapter! We honor 

Melissa for her unflagging dedication to uplifting our work, 

and her willing service to massage practitioners wherever 

she finds home. 

Government Relations Activist 

Stacey deGooyer has been 

an amazing AMTA-CA 

volunteer in 2012. She has 

been an active member of the 

Government Relations Task 

Force and has encouraged 

other members to participate 

in Government Relations Task 

Force conference calls. 

Stacey has shown enthusiasm 

and creativity in implementing 

ways to encourage fellow 

members to participate in Government Relations activities. 

Stacey suggested that a letter with information about 

Government Relations be included in the New Member 

Welcome Packet sent out by the Chapter Office. She has 

also contributed significantly to the process of gathering 

input for the upcoming Sunset Review. 

Stacey furnished language for a Mayoral Proclamation 

in Petaluma that recognized National Massage Therapy 

Awareness Week and has taken the lead in organizing 

local massage professionals to work with the Petaluma 

City Council to adopt a massage regulation ordinance. She 

testified at the City Council meeting on the ordinance as well 

as advocated for more opportunity for input from massage 

professionals. 

AMTA- California Chapter is pleased to present the 

Government Relations Activist Award to Stacey de Gooyer. 

4 

REGISTER NOW AND RECEIVE THE EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT. 


Excellence In Massage Education 

More Chapter Awards Presented at Conference 

Jim Berns 

Since 1980, 

Jim Berns 

has been a 

Registered 

Ortho-Bionomy 

Advanced 

Instructor 

and Senior 

Practitioner. 

He was trained 

directly by the 

founder Arthur 

Lincoln Pauls, D.O. and he holds a Bachelor of Arts degree 

in Sociology. His experience includes 28 years in the 

health education field, practicing and teaching certified 

massage therapy as well as training in areas such as body 

therapies, personal growth, and communication skills. Jim 

is also co-author of the book, Ortho-Bionomy: A Practice 

Manual, which has sold over 10,000 copies. One longtime 

AMTA-CA member put it so eloquently when she 

stated, “Jim is an unquestioned advanced master of Ortho- 

Bionomy - a master among us.” 

Jim has taught numerous classes internationally and 

locally, presenting at various events such as the National 

AMTA Convention, AMTA California Massage Education 

Conference, and at AMTA-CA Unit meetings throughout 

the state. Jim has made many contributions in education in 

our state for many years. He has been, and continues to be a 

much loved educator and dedicated AMTA-CA supporter. 

AMTA-CA recognizes Jim Berns’ excellency as a 

teacher and mentor to massage therapists, especially 

AMTA-CA members, over many years. One member noted 

that it is appropriate to recognize him this year when our 

state conference theme is ‘Experiencing the Energy.’ She 

stated, “Jim’s career has spanned several decades, yet 

he continues to exhibit the power of positive energy that 

is part and parcel of Ortho-Bionomy. He exuberantly 

shares his love of the body’s ability to come to wholeness, 

healing, and self-awareness, with the assistance of a 

well-intentioned practitioner.” Jim’s manner of teaching 

is calm and patient and at the same time passionate and 

inspiring. He holds high professional standards and has 

the ability to instruct and mentor therapists of all levels, 

reflecting the values of AMTA. Another AMTA-CA 

member shared that “Jim’s presentations have enriched the 

Units and our members. His classes are informative and his 

recognition of the professionalism and fundamental value 

of our organization as a network within our profession has 

proven mutually beneficial.” 

Our deepest thanks to Jim for sharing his expertise, 

his love of massage and bodywork, and for his support 

in educating, inspiring and motivating the members of 

AMTA-California Chapter. 

Mentor of the Year, 2013 

Chris Voltarel 

Chris Voltarel is one of our 

Chapter’s amazing gems. She 

is a natural leader. She is one 

of those people that can inspire, 

encourage, and mentor all at the 

same time. She has this infectious 

energy that makes you 

want to reach for the stars when 

working with her. She sees the 

bigger picture with all of the 

details mapped out before you 

can grasp the initial concept. 

Chris has always been one to 

roll up her sleeves and jump in to help. She has great 

humility while possessing the confidence that things will 

be accomplished. She leads by example and has mentored 

many in our association over the years. 

The phrase “dynamite comes in a small 

package” applies to Chris. She has served 

this Chapter as the Southern Rep (1996- 

1998), the Chapter President (1998-2002), 

to becoming the Co-Government Relations 

Chair (2003-2005), and now is a volunteer 

on the National level as the Chapters’ Relations Chair. 

It is with great honor, that we, the California Chapter, 

present this recognition to Chris Voltarel for her time, 

dedication, and passion as role model to be followed. 

UNIT SERVICE AWARDS 

Deb Tuck 

Cathy Underwood 

Rick Anderson 

Richard Lomeli 

Pam Petty 

Silicon Valley 

Orange County 

East Bay 

LA/South Bay 

Greater Sacramento Area 


5

2013-14 Budgets 

General Fund Budget 

Approved by the ATMA-CA Board of Directors, January 2013 

Ratified by the membership, March 2013 

INCOME 

Dues $112,212.00 

Convention 18,950.00 

Newsletter 2,000.00 

Other Programs 300.00 

Total INCOME $133,462.00 

COST OF GOODS SOLD 

(conference expenses) $34,550.00 

GROSS INCOME $98,912.00 

EXPENSE 

Chapter Office $33,330.00 

Other Administrative 1,425.00 

Chapter Officers & Other 

Governance 24,440.00 

National Convention 15,565.00 

Unit Apportionment & Grants 12,200.00 

Officer’s Training 4,850.00 

Newsletter 5,720.00 

Other Programs 6,995.00 

Total EXPENSE $104,525.00 

NET ORDINARY INCOME $-5,613.00 

OTHER INCOME (bank interest) $265.00 

TOTAL EQUITY 

TO GENERAL FUND $-5,348.00 

Law and Legislative Fund Budget 

Approved by the ATMA-CA Board of Directors, 

January 2013 

Ratified by the membership, March 2013 

INCOME 

4006 · State Fee--Allocation $57,660.00 

4900 · Fundraising $0.00 

EXPENSE 

Total Income $57,660.00 

6200 · Chair Stipend $1,200.00 

6201 · Lodging $200.00 

6202 · Meals $150.00 

6203 · Postage $100.00 

6204 · Printing/Copies $50.00 

6205 · Supplies $50.00 

6206 · Telephone $0.00 

6207 · Travel $750.00 

6210 · Consultation $60,000.00 

6950 · Bank Charges $0.00 

Total Expense $62,500.00 

NET ORDINARY INCOME -$4,840.00 

OTHER INCOME (bank interest) $25.00 

NET INCOME $-4,815.00 

6 


Welcome New AMTA-CA Members - January-April, 2013 

STUDENT 

Maxine Baldovino Oakland Michael Burrola Buena Park 

Christopher Ames Arroyo Grande Bianca Bankhead Lancaster Bobbi Burton Healdsburg 

Denise Brassinga Stockton Ashley Bariteau San Jose Heidi Carroll Mountain View 

Haley Brooks 

Stockton Jennifer Boyd Fountain Valley Lauren Casares Littlerock 

Tomoko Campbell Cupertino Julia Bridewell Lancaster Indra Castillo Redwood City 

Eric Corpus 

Tollhouse Lisa Bronson 

Fullerton Tristin Catalioti Sebastopol 

Noel David 

Sun Valley Roseline Brown Oxnard 

continued on page 16 

Jonathan Delos Santos Santa Clara 

Anahuac Diaz San Jose 

Antonio Diaz Riverside 

Kelli Divincen Sherman Oaks 

Kelly-Ann Henry Los Angeles 

Juan Hurtado Union City 

Hortencia Iribe 

Fowler 

Kanokrat Kanokyurapan Berkeley 

Sara Lewis Menlo Park 

Tinelle Matlock Studio City 

Amanda Meier Sunnyvale 

Stephen Meier Sunnyvale 

Jinn Nagaoka Walnut Creek 

Bernadette Reid Fountain Valley 

Louis Smith Discovery Bay 

Janet Steen 

Campbell 

Elizabeth Thomas Sunnyvale 

Shernae Thompson Rodeo 

Cathy Tinetti Santa Rosa 

Julianna Trejo Santa Clara 

Elena Trosheva Mission Viejo 

Bianca Vizcarrond Lakewood 

Because of the large 

geographical area of 

our state of California, 

local groups called 

Units are established to help 

bring continuing education, 

networking, and community 

event opportunities to the 

AMTA-CA members. Please 

connect with your local Unit 

Board members or Area Liaison, 

with the Northern and Southern 

representatives (who are the 

liaisons between the Chapter 

and Units), or with Sara-Becca 

at the Chapter Office for more 

information about participating 

and connecting with AMTA-CA 

members in your area. 

CLICK for more details. 

GRADUATE 

Victor Ahumada Oceanside 

Melissa Alvarado-Olson Santa Clara 

Amy Alward Inglewood 

Joseph Antoci San Clemente 

Allan Aponte 

Hayward 

Melanie Mae Araula La Mirada 

Mary Autry 

Oakland 


7

Registration is now open for courses 

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Manual Therapy! Learn to work with 

ease and effectively reduce pain and 

restore joint function in your clients. 

Fall 2013 & Spring 2014 Schedule 

• 5-Day Intensive with Dr. Hendrickson 

at Westerbeke Ranch, Sonoma 

• 200 hour Advanced Certification Program 

• 21 hour Weekend Classes 

Refer to www.hendricksonmethod.com for course information. 

You may contact Jeanette at 510.524.3107 or 

email school@hendricksonmethod.com to sign up. 

https://www.facebook.com/HendricksonMethodInstitute 

Meet Government Relations Interim Chair, Lisa Santoro 

Hello California Chapter! 

I am serving as interim Government Relations Chair and I take this opportunity to welcome members 

who have in interest in shaping the future of massage in California I started out in the 1980’s in the 

music business as a rock and roll booking agent and manager but had always been interested in natural 

health. I decided to become a massage therapist and graduated from the Muscular Therapy Institute in 

Cambridge, MA (Ben Benjamin’s school) in 1995. My first massage project was founding a massage 

practice at the University Health Services at Harvard University. (You can read about my practice there 

in an article titled, “Making Massage Grow Like Ivy” by Karen Futral in the September 2003 issue 

of the AMTA Journal.) I specialize in working with people who have cancer, and cancer survivors, 

and in 2010 was awarded a faculty appointment at Boston Medical Center as the Director of Massage 

Training Programs. In partnership with Cortiva Boston, I directed an Oncology Massage internship at 

Boston Medical Center as well as a community massage program and other educational opportunities 

for medical staff about the efficacy of massage. 

Upon arriving here in California two years ago, I served as the Northern Representative, and now as 1st Vice President on 

the Chapter Board. I have a strong work ethic, and am dedicated to helping my home chapter do well, and have much to 

offer. The AMTA Massachusetts Chapter is a very strong and vibrant group of dedicated professionals. As their Membership 

Chair, I was able to help them grow to be considered an “extra large” chapter, even for such a small state! Being active 

in the shift from town by town to state licensure was a great experience, where I was able to work with the Vice Squads, 

other law enforcement professionals and health departments. I learned a great deal about navigating in the political arena. 

When Bernadette Murray resigned from Government Relations Chair, I was asked to serve as interim Chair. I invite you to 

participate on the GR monthly conference calls, and encourage you to meet your assemblymen and other political allies so 

that they know our dedication to our work and our strides towards recognition of our profession as a health and wellness 

modality. I look forward to meeting you all, and keeping you informed as we take steps towards progress. 

8 


President’s Message from Michael Roberson 

Are you a fan or a follower? What is the difference 

between these two? It’s always best to start with good old 

Merriam-Webster. 

A Fan or a Follower 

Definitions 

FAN: noun, an 

enthusiastic devotee (as of 

a sport or performing art) 

usually a spectator. 

FOLLOWER: noun, an 

adherent or devotee of a 

particular person, cause or 

activity or a person who 

moves or travels behind 

someone or something. 

Now this may seem a strange way to begin a message, but 

I assure you, the difference between these two makes a 

difference. 

From our local Units to our Chapter Board and to our 

National Association, volunteers are the people who 

make this organization function. These volunteers are the 

followers. They all have action behind their convictions, 

actions that make things happen. 

When we are asked to volunteer, I think many of us 

believe it is a life sentence. Another thought might be the 

song lyrics from Hotel California, “You can check out 

any time you like, but you can never leave.” Yet there are 

so many opportunities available for short-term, “episodic 

volunteering.” These episodic opportunities allow one to 

take on a role for a short period of time, a single event, a 

single workshop, or a simple task such as writing an article 

for the newsletter, or making a connection with a new 

member. Of course, longer term volunteers are needed as 

well. Our Units cannot exist without a President, Treasurer, 

and Secretary or Vice Presidents. And even these longer 

term commitments have an endpoint in sight. With the 

skills and talents of more supporting board members, 

the jobs become easier to accomplish and our members 

receive the benefits of our work. 

As with all things, balance is required. You cannot 

volunteer to a point that your personal life falls into 

jeopardy. At the same time, volunteering has its benefits to 

those who give of their time. You need to be comfortable 

to saying,”No” or “Not at this time.” 

So here are some guidelines for volunteers and how to 

recruit them most effectively: 

· 

· 

· 

· 

· 

· 

· 

What does the volunteer get out of this (their 

reward)? 

What does the Unit get out of this (results)? 

What is the time line to accomplish the task? 

(Note, larger tasks should be broken down 

to smaller tasks to avoid overload and with 

each accomplished smaller task, time for a 

celebration!) 

Can the volunteer get this done within this time 

frame? 

Does the volunteer have other people to support 

to accomplish the desired task? 

When the task is completed, ALWAYS say, 

“Thank You!” and allow the person to step away 

from any additional tasks. 

You can always request a person to do another 

episodic task once one is completed. 

These guidelines will help to avoid burnout. New 

volunteers will know what is expected of them and will 

be able to see a point of completion (and celebration!). It 

also allows volunteers to step away and enjoy a break to 

be a participant, knowing they can always step back in for 

another task. 

Again, our association from top to bottom, is taken care 

of by volunteers-- volunteers of massage therapists, about 

massage therapists, for massage therapy. I LOVE AMTA! 

and ‘I amTA.’ So are you a Fan or a Follower? Let me 

see you in action! 

· 

· 

Before you ask for someone to volunteer for a 

position or task, ask why this person? 

What characteristics and skills does this person 

have that will meet the need(s) you have? 


9

All Unit Officers -- SAVE THE DATE - 

We are ready for YOU! 

The AMTA-CA Board hopes that you will join us for our 

2013 OFFICER’S TRAINING 

Southern California Holistic Institute 

(SOCHI), N. Hollywood 

Saturday, August 10 - Sunday, August 11, 2013 

Hotel Accommodations at the nearby 

Beverly Garland Hotel, Studio City 

This training is presented by the California Chapter to assist Unit Officers in successfully 

completing their Unit Officers responsibility. During the weekend, we 

will answer your questions about... 

• Government Relations 

• Volunteering 

• Your Unit position 

• The Chapter website 

• Communicating with your Unit members 

• Using Gmail accounts 

And you will go home with a Toolkit filled with great resources 

to make your Unit run move effectively and efficiently. 

Watch for your invite in your email and plan to join us for this fun and informative event. 

Participants at the 

2012 Officer’s Training 

10 


Scholarship Winners Expound on Conference Experiences 

From Karen DeFrew Bruning, LA/South Bay Unit 

For several years, I have enjoyed volunteering in different 

capacities for the LA/South Bay Unit. It constantly surprises 

me how rewarding I find it. Because of this, I received a 

nomination for a Judy Dean Professional Scholarship 

and attended the 2013 California AMTA Conference in 

Sacramento as a grateful recipient. 

Aptly entitled “Experience the Energy,” the Chapter 

Board planned an action packed weekend for us with top 

name educators and speakers. This year’s event happened 

at the beautiful Sheraton Grand in downtown Sacramento. 

The view from my room on the 19th floor was spectacular, 

especially at night, but I barely spent any time there except 

to sleep! 

Jim Berns, who graciously stepped in as keynote speaker 

for Chris Voltarel, and James Waslaski gave inspiring talks 

at the breakfast meetings. Both men conveyed messages of 

gratitude, encouraging us not only to commend ourselves for 

the efforts we made to attend this conference and expand our 

knowledge, but also to give back to our communities with 

generosity and positivity. 

The two days were filled with outstanding education 

along with business meetings and elections. When it came to 

choosing courses, it was a tough decision. Since I am fortunate 

to live close to SoCHI (Southern California Health Institute) 

where Oleg Bouimer teaches, I chose James Waslaski’s four 

sessions on Orthopedic Massage and received a certification 

for lower body. During class, I reconnected with an old friend 

from my area and we made plans to practice techniques back 

at home. 

Upon returning to Los Angeles, a fellow member asked 

me, “Isn’t that mostly a social event?” Far from it! Yes, it 

is great fun catching up with old friends and interacting 

with new ones, at Friday night’s reception and Saturday and 

Sunday’s breakfast and lunch meetings. But there is so much 

more to our conference. If you have never been, I highly 

recommend it. More importantly, I highly recommend 

volunteering. It is a great feeling to give back to the AMTA 

community, to be involved with the momentum of growing 

our profession, and to” Experience the Energy” it gives to 

your own practice. 

with its enhanced glide surfactant, James talked about his 

personal experience using the product and the benefits it 

had afforded him. 

Saturday morning we had a last minute change in 

keynote speaker. Jim Berns expanded on the conference 

theme of experiencing energy and talked about the many 

nuances involved with us as individuals, as therapists, and 

as members of our community. 

The highlight of the conference for me was the Sunday 

morning keynote speaker who was also the instructor of 

the class I took, James Waslaski. He is a personal trainer as 

well as the creator of a modality that combines orthopedic 

massage and sports massage. For two days we concentrated 

on lower body extremities, starting with an overview of 

the current trends in the sports massage field. We studied 

pelvic and knee conditions and complications of lower 

extremities. We alternated between lectures and practicing 

these newly developed techniques. James used numerous 

references from his newly completed peer reviewed text 

and his pain-free applications. James extended the team 

concept he developed while writing this text to treating his 

clients. He includes coaches, trainers, chiropractors and 


From Cathy Underwood, Orange County Unit 

Friday, March 23 marked the beginning of a stimulating and 

informative weekend. As we snacked on hors d’oeuvres, 

greeted old friends and made new acquaintances, we browsed 

through the vendors to see what was new and what specials 

were being packaged for the benefit of the members. There 

were a number of vendors offering lotions, essential oils, and 

lubricants to enhance the massage experience. Of particular 

interest to me was a product being demonstrated by James 

Waslaski. As he demonstrated the new Cryoderm product 


11

physicians as well as massage therapists, to round out his 

team. This modality is as applicable for the weekend warrior 

as well as the student and professional athletic. After doing 

a postural assessment, the next step is to do to find tight 

and weak muscles. Tight muscles should be addressed first: 

clients are given very specific exercises to stabilize muscles 

while differencing between myofascial restrictions and 

strained muscles. Pelvic stabilization is key to structural 

balance to structural balance in the body. James’ ability to 

combine myofascial release work with modified structural 

integration, sports massage and exercise has created a new 

discipline that is effective and efficient in dealing with pain 

management as well as structurally realigning the client. 

Saturday luncheon found the membership dealing with 

a year’s worth of business – the elections, new regulations, 

and tributes to long standing members. Several days worth 

of content were sandwiched into a too short lunch hour. The 

meeting was carried over to Sunday morning’s breakfast 

and finally curtailed as we started our last day of classes. 

In what can be a very solitary profession, this 

weekend was a great way to network and meet with fellow 

professionals, share 

ideas and opinions, 

be exposed to 

new products 

and ideas, and 

generally recharge 

our professional 

batteries. Thank 

you all for such a 

meaningful learning 

experience. 

From Jeannie Martin, Redwood Empire Unit 

As an avid believer in continuing education, I was honored 

to be accepted as one of the Chapter’s recipients for the 

Centa Sprenzel Continuing Education Scholarships. For 

those AMTA members who are unaware of this program, the 

scholarship is a complimentary full-conference registration 

package for the AMTA-CA Education Conference held 

every year in March. The 2013 theme was “Experience the 

Energy,” which was definitely appropriate as this weekend 

inspired me to further my education and become more 

active in AMTA. The conference not only consisted of 

presentations by excellent leaders in the field of massage, 

but dynamic keynote speakers, informative information 

from our Government Relations Task Force, and enthusiastic 

student members. 

“Experience the Energy” formally began on Saturday 

morning, but many of us attended the meet-and-greet 

12 

Scholarship Winners (continued from page 11) 

reception on Friday evening. This was a marvelous 

opportunity to network with other therapists and reconnect 

with old friends over refreshments, while perusing the 

wide variety of vendor booths. I was pleased to see the 

Government Relations Task Force had a table, as they do 

an amazing job of educating the public as to the benefits 

of massage. Their tireless efforts make them wonderful 

advocates of the profession and keep us informed about 

laws and regulations concerning massage therapy. 

Saturday morning began with breakfast accompanied 

by keynote speaker Jim Berns, a prestigious lecturer. I was 

most inspired by his sentiments as to what it means to have 

chosen an avocation in a healing profession. Our Sunday 

morning keynote speech was given by James Waslaski, who 

delivered an insightful presentation including the benefits 

of being passionate about your chosen profession. 

The workshops were presented on Saturday and Sunday 

by two authorities in orthopedic and sports massage James 

Waslaski and Oleg Bouimer. I took 4 workshops by James 

Waslaski and was not only impressed by his knowledge, 

but inspired to continue with further studies throughout this 

year. James has the gift of a brilliant mind coupled with 

an entertaining presentation style. My guide dog, Rolanda, 

also proved to be a hit during the classes, which always 

makes me pleased. 

Saturday lunch included the Annual Business Meeting, 

where we were informed of the current status of the budget 

and the current occurrences with AMTA. It is gratifying to 

know that we are well within our budget. This meeting gives 

the members a chance to observe just how much effort and 

service our Chapter Board give to the organization. During 

Sunday lunch, Government Relations gave a presentation in 

which the members were given tools on how to meet your 

legislators and a further understanding of the importance of 

the California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC). This is 

a subject close to my heart. CAMTC is dedicated to raising 

the education standard in the industry and thereby making 

the massage profession more prestigious and respected in 

the community. They do a wonderful job and should be 

proud. 

This conference fueled my desire not only for further 

education in clinical massage therapy, but also to become 

more actively involved with AMTA. On April 26, I was 

formally elected to serve as President of the Redwood 

Empire Unit. This may have never happened if I had not 

attended the conference, It was there that I became inspired 

to further achievements in my own massage business, and 

with the AMTA. I hope all of you will take advantage of the 

wonderful education opportunities AMTA-CA provides in 

the Annual Education Conference, and I would urge Units 

to submit applications for the scholarships. 


What’s Happening in the Gold Coast Region? 

I’m so glad you asked! We had a massage cupping class 

certification in Ventura in April. The participants were able 

to build on their current practice with the help of Jason 

Miller’s expertise! We want to offer more continuing 

education workshops (allday 

or on a weekend) 

with some renowned 

instructors, like Jason 

Miller, Erik Dalton, or Jim 

Berns who was bestowed 

the Myka Hungerford 

Excellence in Massage 

Education Award. Tell us 

what you are looking for 

in continuing education. 

What would enhance your 

experience or renew your 

commitment to excellence 

in massage? 

Gold Coast Region is proud to represent massage therapy 

in the sports arena! The Bike MS Coastal Challenge will 

be October 12-13 in Ventura. Bike MS will continue in Las 

Vegas November 9-10, so there will be ample opportunity 

to practice your skills and build your resume with actual 

sports therapy clients! Gold Coast region is making plans to 

participate, offering sports therapy massage to participants 

by Berni Brazier, Gold Coast Liaison 

and attendees! Multiple Sclerosis is crippling but many 

individuals with MS participate in this event. As a massage 

therapist, what are some special needs of this population? 

How could you market successfully to individuals with 

Multiple Sclerosis? In the works is the possibility of offering 

a class for certification in Sports Therapy, that addresses 

athletes with unique needs, like MS. Let me know if this 

is something you would like, and how much you would be 

willing to spend to gain valuable knowledge and experience 

in Sports Therapy Massage for special populations. 

Our new Southern Representative Nathan O’Hara 

and I will be visiting the different counties of the Gold Coast 

region over the next months. We would love to meet and 

greet everyone personally. Would you host a potluck for us? 

Let me know. We will also be visiting the schools in our 

area to provide more support for individual members. We 

are here to serve you. Please help us to do so! 

The recent California Convention was incredible and 

we saw more students coming out to find out about AMTA. 

We’d love to hear from you... tell us what AMTA does for 

you personally? How has it benefited your practice? What 

would you share with a new student if you were a mentor? By 

the way, AMTA National Convention is coming in October 

in Fort Worth. Anyone want to go? 

Email Berni Brazier at gcliaison@atma-ca.org. 

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13

2013-14 Newly Elected Unit Officers and Unit Volunteers 

LA/South Bay 

President 

Richard Lomeli 

VP of Education Suzanne Bose 

Treasurer 

Adrienne 

Montoya 

VP, Communication Ben Taylor 

GR chair 

Ben Taylor 

VP Newsletter Erika Reynolds 

Secretary 

Yvonne Bauer 

San Diego 

President 

Vice President 

Secretary 

Treasurer 

Education Chairs 

Hospitality 

Inland Empire 

President 

Vice President 

Secretary 

Treasurer 

Stephanie 

Fernandez 

Erin Hanlon 

Sarah Marks 

Debora 

Torkington 

Linda Groat 

Sandy Jackson 

Ruth Dorn 

Susan Spurlock 

Michael Kirk 

Gillian Pringle 

Kristi Barsugli 

Orange County 

President 

Brian Arakaki 

Secretary 

Ron Voss 

Co-Secretary Cathy 

Underwood 

Treasurer 

Michael 

Fischer-Militaru 

Hospitality Chair Faye Crane 

Gov Relations Mark Dixon 

Newsletter Publisher Michael 

Roberson 

Education Co-Chairs Cindy Pedrosa 

Michael 

Roberson 

Social Media Cindy Pedrosa 

Redwood Empire 

President 

VP Law & Leg. 

VP Education 

Secretary/Treasurer 

Web Comm. Hero 

Jeannie Martin 

Stacey 

DeGooyer 

Barbara 

Morrison 

Karen C. Russell 

Chip Smith 

East Bay 

President 

VP 

Secretary 

Kim Yoshinobu- 

Angius 

Rick Anderson 

Carolyn Ulitsky 

Greater Sacramento Area 

President 

Patricia Rusert 

Gillette 

Vice President Pamela Petty 

Secretary 

Brent Carter 

Treasurer 

Bernadette 

Murray 

Silicon Valley 

President 

Karen 

Boulanger 

Vice President Lisa Santoro 

VP/Communication Jessica 

McCormick 

Treasurer 

Patrick Wilson 

Secretary 

Maria 

Breuninger 

Thanks for volunteering to serve your 

Unit and the AMTA-CA membership. 

14 


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15

GRADUATES - cont. from page 7 

Veronica Cervantes San Francisco 

Rebecca Charnley Fremont 

Yolanda Chavez-Turcios Indio 

Oksana Chernetska Cupertino 

Alicia Contreras Sacramento 

Alyssa Corson Huntington Beach 

Jennifer Cuaderno San Francisco 

Ambria Cunningham Fairfield 

Sean D’La Garza Los Angeles 

Edward De Leon San Jose 

Becca Del Puerto Burlingame 

Reyna Diaz San Francisco 

Lakiesha Douglas Sacramento 

Talitha Ekama Santa Cruz 

Gretta Emmons San Jose 

Jason Engberg San Francisco 

Dana Erickson Sherman Oaks 

Bryce Feliciano Costa Mesa 

Dalton Fiori San Marcos 

Brian Fischer 

San Jose 

Gregory Fite Castro Valley 

Edwin Flores Lake Hughes 

Wayne Fontaine, Jr. Oakland 

Alexandria Forbito Whittier 

Ailsa Franks 

Fresno 

Charlene Friend West Hollywood 

Sotera Gacad-Cowan San Francisco 

Talisha Garcia Salinas Lancaster 

Esther Gehrig Elster San Diego 

Lindsay Gibson Littlerock 

Michelle Gillhouse Cerritos 

Alejandro Gonzalez Los Angeles 

Shannon Gotelli San Leandro 

Carmela Greenberg Cupertino 

Valerie Griego Lancaster 

Elizabeth Grijalva Van Nuys 

Alexander Han San Jose 

Katherine Hannan Sacramento 

Carolina Haran Elk Grove 

Effie Hardy Sacramento 

Victoria Hendrix Oakland 

Ernesto Herrera Littlerock 

Charles Hicks Canoga Park 

Jeanne Hilario Riverside 

Vanessa Hollingshead Sacramento 

Shannon Hollis Burbank 

John Hull Canyon Country 

Jasmine Hunter Hayward 

Elihoaniah Hutcherson 

San Leandro 

Stela Iacob 

Sunnyvale 

David Ireland Petaluma 

Kelli Johnston Montclair 

Sarah Katembo Anaheim 

Mollie Kennedy Concord 

Hans Korsmo Westlake Village 

Jonathan Krawetz San Jose 

16 

Welcome New AMTA-CA Members - January-April, 2013 

Jackie P Kuan San Bruno Rachelle Sison Sacramento 

Milissa Dorian Lam Los Angeles Chip Smith 

Windsor 

Ginger Lisson Petaluma Steven Smith 

Gilroy 

Janeen Louie 

Vallejo Yasuko Sonoda Santa Clara 

Elone Lutui East Palo Alto Zachary Springfield San Jose 

Jose Machado 

Davis Hannah Sulzen San Gabriel 

Lilliana Maestas San Diego Kimbraley Sykes Sacramento 

Elaina Manzanares Novato Maryam Taleghani Irvine 

David Maravilla Littlerock Ilbron Tamrazzadeh La Crescenta 

David Marin Santa Ana Araminta Thorne San Francisco 

Monica Marroquin Chula Vista Lydia Tilus 

Upland 

Annel Martinez California City Danielle Tousley Campbell 

Natalya Mashevsky Palo Alto Melby Trigo Orellana 

Armando Mayo Jr. Clovis 

N. Hollywood 

Kevin McDonald Sacramento Danyelle Upchurch Fairfield 

James McLarty Garden Grove Nestor Vargas Sunnyvale 

Michelle McWilliams Hayward Stacy Walker Mountain View 

Matthew Mendez San Diego Atreese Watkins Berkeley 

Edwin Mendoza 

Tustin Stillman White North Hollywood 

Frankie Menzel El Sobrante Jared White Sebastopol 

Jeannie Menzi-Hilsum Los Angeles Kathlyn Williams San Diego 

Alan Mercer Los Angeles Dana Wylie 

San Diego 

Chava Mishulovin Los Angeles Alberto Zarate Garcia 

Janelle Moco Middletown 

San Francisco 

Dustin Moe 

Danville 

Marisol Montiel Palmdale 

PROFESSIONAL 

Sandra Moore 

Irvine 

Rhianna Ahern Costa Mesa 

Adrianna Moran Santa Rosa 

Elenoa Aipoalani Hayward 

Jane Moro Los Angeles 

Catherine Almirol Chula Vista 

Nhean Nepomuceno Modesto 

Crystal Arthur La Habra Heights 

Tristan Nuñez Lemon Grove 

Kasey Beatty 

Hemet 

Sakura Ogawa Studio City 

Aurora Blua 

Indio 

Gina Olan 

Pomona 

Elbert Brito 

Anaheim 

Doug Olson 

San Jose 

Tina Calcara 

Petaluma 

Ben Oong 

Pacifica 

Jasmin Calderon San Jose 

Jacqueline Owens Antioch 

Anthony Camacho Walnut Creek 

Hector Pena 

San Jose 

Karen Cucura Mammoth Lakes 

Roxanna Peng Sacramento 

Patrick Curren Altadena 

Charon Perez Sacramento 

Caitlin Daggett 

Saugus 

Kayla Phillips 

Fontana 

Iona de la Torre Reseda 

Deivendran Poochi Union City 

Jahmodd Deramus Berkeley 

Nicholas Pumroy Los Angeles 

Jacqueline Dibble San Jose 

Demerie Queen Suisun City 

Cullen Dickson Valley Village 

Roxanne Ramirez Oakland 

Kathleen Dietrich San Francisco 

Elizabeth Rangel Windsor 

John Edgar South Lake Tahoe 

Corinne Rankin Elk Grove 

Ted Evans Santa Monica 

Anna Rehr San Francisco 

Charlene Fanti Murrieta 

Ann Ritrovato Sebastopol 

Babette Farmer Escondido 

Jaclyn Robinson Los Angeles 

Madjid Farshi Sherman Oaks 

Trinidad Rodriguez Chatsworth 

Cecilia Fernandez Emeryville 

Stephanie Roman San Diego 

Rachel Frei 

Dublin 

Christy Romay Discovery Bay 

Leonardo Gutierrez San Jose 

Stacy Rossi 

Antioch 

Nanette Hart San Francisco 

Cheyanne Sanford Pinole 

Marcela Hawk South Pasadena 

Caroline Santiago Sacramento 

Kevin Hopper La Mesa 

Ilene Sherman La Mesa 

Kathleen Hough Wrightwood 

Elizabeth Shirley La Mesa 

Meagan Hufnail Canoga Park 

Natalie Siemietkowski Clovis 

Karen Irvin 

Oakland 




17

NEW MEMBERS 

continued from page 16 

Molly James Bakersfield 

Sara Johnson 

Newport Beach 

Sherry Kaplan La Mirada 

Susan Krafthefer La Mesa 

Tracilla Larry Elk Grove 

Justin Laventer Santa Rosa 

Victor Leung San Mateo 

Monica Martin Mountain View 

Elma Martinez 

Tracy 

Cesar Martinez Moreno Valley 

Sarah Mata-Servin Galt 

Sophia Moore Stockton 

Michelle Morris Calipatria 

Rose Nadali Beverly Hills 

Nathan O’Hara Oxnard 

Tony Pagliaro 

Tracy 

Laura Perez Long Beach 

Brenda Perez 

Fresno 

Jenna Peterson Santa Cruz 

Jennifer Pineda San Bruno 

Nicholas Planessi Redwood City 

Derek Pond Chino Hills 

Mingfang Qi Sunnyvale 

Ana Ralston Winchester 

Debbie Ramos 

Visalia 

Susan Reinhart 

Goleta 

Teresa Riverwood Sherman Oaks 

Mark Schermerhorn San Jose 

Drisan Sellers San Diego 

Samantha Sklaar North Hollywood 

Lisa Slininger 

Folsom 

Melanie Snowhite Julian 

Weifen Sun 

Alhambra 

Richard Takahashi San Diego 

Robert Trindle Petaluma 

Frank Vasquez Los Angeles 

SUPPORTING 

Erina Buckley 

Chi Nei Tsang Institute 

Gilles Marin 

Irvine 

Oakland 

We hope to see you at a Unit meeting 

or Chapter event soon. 

Are you listed in the AMTA Find A 

Massage Therapist? It’s a free benefit 

of membership and can help to build 

your practice. 

www.amtamassage.org 

California Massage Therapy Council Report 

California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC) continues to collaborate 

with AMTA-CA Chapter Government Relations leaders to provide support 

and guidance as the current bill, AB1147, is considered by the Legislature. 

The author has placed the bill in the Inactive File to provide stakeholders an 

opportunity to reach consensus on critical land use issues. The major opponent 

to the bill is the League of California Cities, and CAMTC continues to oppose 

most of its amendments. 

CAMTC remains committed to its Mission Statement: To protect the public by 

certifying qualified massage professionals in California. 

Since implementation in 2009, CAMTC has processed 53,147 applications and 

certified 45,745 massage professionals. Current certificate holder population 

stands at 39,274 and Recertification stats are running 10% ahead of expectations. 

The organization is strong financially, with cash reserves equal to six months’ 

operating capital, placing CAMTC in the top fifth of California non-profits. 

Important reminders to AMTA members: 

1) California law protects the Title and requires CAMTC Certificate Numbers 

to appear on all advertising, including business cards, flyers, websites, etc., 

whenever the title CMT or CMP, or Certified Massage Therapist or Certified 

Massage Practitioner, are used. Use of these titles by persons who are not 

currently certified by CAMTC is considered an unfair business practice and is 

a violation of the law. 

2) Unless CAMTC certificate holders are W-2 Employees they are considered 

Independent Contractors whether working alone or in a group (including 

Chiropractic offices) and should obtain a Business License (which does not 

allow them to be called Licensed Massage Practitioners) if the city in which 

they work requires that business owners have one. 

For additional information on the purpose and function of CAMTC, 

visit http://www.camtc.org/. 

AMTA-CA & CAMTC worked hard to ensure CAMTC certificate holders be 

exempt from having to post the Human Trafficking sign in SB1193 (Steinberg) 

“Human Trafficking: posting requirements.” The law was passed in September 

of 2012, with the posters becoming available on the Department of Justice 

website on April 1, 2013. 

Respectfully submitted, 

Mark W. Dixon, CMT, NCTMB 

Chairman, California Massage Therapy Council 

CAMTC Certificate #13 

18 


Greetings from Your Northern Representative, Marcia Degelman 

I’ve been an AMTA member for a long time. The first National Convention I went to was Seattle, WA in 1986. It was in a 

fabulous hotel downtown. I remember the hot tub on the 35th floor, always full of Californians. I thought, “I have to get 

more involved with this fun group!” So I did. In fact, I was serving as the President of the Golden Gate Unit, when I got 

pregnant. After my daughter was born, I took some time away to focus on family. And now that she has left for college, it’s 

time for me to give back again. One of my goals is to see the Golden Gate unit restored. Did you know we have over 250 

members in the Golden Gate Unit? That’s more than some state Chapters! I hope that you can join me at the June 26 meeting 

at UCSF Osher Center for Integrative Medicine. Details are noted below: 

All Northern 

California 

Massage 

Therapists 

you are invited to attend a Free gathering 

sponsored by the american massage therapy association, 

california chapter 

Wednesday, June 26.13 

ucsf osher center for 

integrative Medicine 

1545 divisadero street, 5th floor 

at Post Street 

San Francisco, CA 94115 

All massage school students are also invited! Refreshments will be served. 

 

panel discussion on 

6-7 pm Golden Gate Unit members only-- CAMTC to elect a new Unit 

Restorative 

Board. 

movement for massage 

therapists & 

California massage therapy council & the 

future of massage therapy 

Dancing! 

• 

• 7-8 pm Panel Discussion on the California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC) and the Future of Massage 

Therapy, featuring Beverly May of CAMTC, Stacey DeGooyer, an active AMTA member and Tim 

Cowan, the head of massage 7pm-8pm services at Millberry Union, UCSF. 8-9:30pm 

• 8-9:30 pm Restorative Movement, ways to keep your joints healthy and your muscles strong. 

refreshments will served 

And there will be dancing, so bring your dancing shoes! If you have ever been to a National Convention, you know massage 

massage therapy students are welcome! 

therapists love to dance after the Banquet. And if you have never gone to a National Convention, mark your calendars now 

any questions call marcia degelman, CMT (415) 971-9036 

for September 25-28 in Fort Worth, Texas. Maybe there will be a hot tub full of Californians. 

If you’d like to get involved, please email me. 

I am also one of your delegates to the National Convention and you can contact me with any concerns. 

Marcia Degelman 

northernrep@amta-ca.org 


19

2013 Unit Calendar and Contacts Community Outreach Events 

Date, Event, Location, & Contact 

SOUTHERN UNITS EVENTS and CONTACTS 

DESERT RESORTS Region 

Do you live in this region and want to serve as Liaison? 

Contact Chapter President Michael Roberson at 

President@amta-ca.org. 

GOLD COAST Region 

Contact: Bernita Brazier, Gold Coast liaison at (805) 247- 

9075 or GCliaison @amta-ca.org. 

September 14 

Best Buddies Challenge, Hearst Castle, 

San Simeon 

Cynthia Sykes cynsykes46@yahoo.com 

October 12 World Champion Ironman, Kona 

Brian Arakaki bkarakaki@sbcglobal.net 

October 12-13 MS Bike Challenge, Ventura 

Berni Brazier gcliaison@amta-ca.org 

INLAND EMPIRE UNIT 

Contact: Susan Spurlock at IEPresident@amta-ca.org 

October 19-20 MS Bay to Bay, San Diego 

Sue Duran durans@nhi.edu 

LOS ANGELES/SOUTH BAY UNIT 

Contact: VP of Education Suzanne Bose at 

LASBvpEducation@amta-ca.org 

MID-STATE Region 

Contact: Tom Benson, Mid State Liaison at (206) 683-4068 

or MSliaison@amta-ca.org. 

NORTHERN UNITS EVENTS and CONTACTS 

EAST BAY UNIT 

Contact: President Kim Yoshinobu-Angius at 

EBPresident@amta-ca.org 

ORANGE COUNTY UNIT 

Contact: Michael Roberson at president@amta-ca.org or 

(949) 292-9207 

June 23 Introduction to Polarity Therapy 

with Gary Strauss 

Aug. 25 How to Prevent and Rehabilitate Shoulder 

Pain with Cynthia Ribeiro 

Nov. 10 Russian Medical Massage with Oleg Bouimer 

Stay connected with OCU on Facebook for meeting and 

workshop details. 

GOLDEN GATE UNIT 

Contact: Marcia Degelman at northernrep@amta-ca.org 

June 26 Unit Meeting to Elect Officers 

Panel Discussion on the Future of Massage 

GREATER SACRAMENTO AREA UNIT 

Contact: Patricia Rusert Gillette at 

GSApresident@amta-ca.org 

SAN DIEGO UNIT 

Contacts: Stephanie Fernandez at 

June 23 

SDpresident@amta-ca.org 

Ortho-Bionomy of the Psoas 

with Jim Berns 

REDWOOD EMPIRE UNIT 

Contact: President Jeannie Martin at 

REpresident@amta-ca.org 

July Date and topic to be determined 

AMTA-CA is approved by the National 

Certification Board for Therapeutic 

Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) 

as a continuing education provider. 

#451819-11. 

SILICON VALLEY UNIT 

Contact: President Karen Bouanger at 

SVPresident@amta-ca.org 

Connect with the Silicon Valley Unit on Facebook. 

20 


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21

Your 2012-2013 Chapter Board and Appointees 

President 

 

(617) 312-2302 

1stvp@amta-ca.org 

2nd Vice President 

 

P O Box 103 

Forestville, CA 95436 

(707) 820-7481 

3rdvp@amta-ca.org 

Treasurer 

 

Windsor, CA 

(408) 316-0174 

secretary@amta-ca.org 

Southern Representative 

 

1545 Divisadero St, 4th floor 

San Francisco, CA 94115 

(415) 971-9036 

northernrep@amta-ca.org 

APPOINTEES 

Education Chair 2013 

Riya Suising --> 

edchair@amta-ca.org 

Sergeant At Arms 

Position Open 

Web Assistant 

 

INFO@amta-ca.org 

CALIFORNIA CHAPTER OFFICE 

(800) 696-2682 

fax: 518-463-8656 

www.amta-ca.org 

P. O. BOX 1707 

CLAREMONT, CA 91711 

INFO@amta-ca.org 

NATIONAL OFFICE INFORMATION 

(877) 905-0577 

fax: (847) 864-1178 

info@amtamassage.org 

www.amtamassage.org 

500 Davis St., Ste. 900, 

Evanston, IL 60201 

22 


Candidate and Volunteer Resume Form 

AMTA-CA CHAPTER Candidate and Volunteer Resume Form 

Please print or type 

Yr joined 

Name _____________________________________________ AMTA I.D. # ___________________ _______ 

Home Address ____________________________________________________________________ 

Phone (w) ________________________ (h) _____________________ (fax) ___________________ 

Email ____________________________________________________________________________ 

Years in massage ______ CAMTC # _____ Massage license? _________ City/County ________________ 

Massage school attended/# of hours __________________________________________________________ 

Date of completion _________________ Other related schooling __________________________________ 

_________________________________________________________________________________________ 

I am interested in volunteering in the following areas: (details can be found on the Chapter website) 

__Awards __Exhibitors __Parliamentarian 

__Budget __Government Relations __Public Relations 

__Bylaws & Standing Rules __Membership __Sergeant at Arms 

__Committee on Candidacy __Newsletter __Social Media 

__Conferences/Workshops __National Convention Delegate __Sports Massage 

__Education __Officer’s Education __Website 

__Board of Directors: President VP Secretary Treasurer Rep: No/ So __Other_____________________ 

Relevant community or professional experience ___________________________________________________ 

_________________________________________________________________________________________ 

List AMTA Chapter (C) and Unit (U) Offices held with dates (include committees): _________________________ 

_________________________________________________________________________________________ 

_________________________________________________________________________________________ 

_________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Other Qualifications _________________________________________________________________________ 

_________________________________________________________________________________________ 

FOR THOSE SEEKING A BOARD OF DIRECTOR POSITION 

How many hours a week do you estimate will be required to perform the duties of this office?________ 

Are you currently able to commit the appropriate time for the performance of your duties? YES NO 

What are your reasons and objectives for seeking this office? ___________________________________________ 

_______________________________________________________________________________________ 

_______________________________________________________________________________________ 

_______________________________________________________________________________________ 

_______________________________________________________________________________________ 

At Board meetings, I understand that I must be present, focused and courteous; that I must put aside my private life for the duration 

of the function; that I will refrain from introducing distracting influences to other Board Members and that I will be prepared to 

transact the business of the Association. 

________________________________________________________________ 

Signature 

Please submit to the Chapter Office mail: P O BOX 1707, Claremont, CA 91711 

email: info@amta-ca.org fax: 518-463-8656 


__________________ 

Date 

23

UPCOMING 2013-14 BOARD MEETINGS 

Board meetings are open to all members. If you are interested in running for an office, why not 

join the Board at one of these meetings. Contact President Michael Roberson for details. 

July 20-21 Face-to-Face South 

August 10 Face-to-Face South 

October 6 

Conference Call at 1 pm 

November 17 Conference Call at 1 pm 

January 25-26 Face-to-Face South 

February 16 Conference Call at 1 pm 

March Face-to-Face South at Annual Education Conference 

CALL FOR CANDIDATES FOR NATIONAL 

Have you considered participating with fellow 

members at the national level? If so, the “Call 

for Candidates” is now open. You can choose 

to run for an elected office for the National 

Board of Directors or the Commission on 

Candidacy. Request an application now and 

complete the process by September 1. Serving 

at the national level is a great way to meet some 

wonderful, dedicated people in our profession. 

Click here for more information. 

24 

California Currents is published by the American Massage Therapy 

Association ® , California Chapter (AMTA-CA). © 2013. 

ISSUE Copy Deadline Received by 

Winter: Jan. 15 [Feb. 28] 

Spring/Summer May 15 [June 30) 

Late Fall: Nov. 1 [Dec. 15] 

Electronic version should reach email subscribers prior to above 

‘received by’ date. Send articles electronically to the Editor. Send 

camera-ready artwork for ads to the Editor and Chapter Office 

Administrator. Send ad checks payable to “AMTA-CA” to the Chapter 

Treasurer, P O Box 397, Claremont, CA 91711. 

NEWSLETTER AD RATES 

SIZE Non-member Member 

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WEBSITE BANNER ADS 

On home page only $150/mo 

Visible on every page $250/mo* 

*only available 9 months of each year 

Contact information for our contributing authors does not constitute 

an endorsement by the AMTA California Chapter. 

AMTA-CA and California Currents reserve the right to edit and/or 

refuse any submitted article or advertisement. Neither AMTA-CA nor 

California Currents guarantees, warrants, or endorses any product, 

service, or referral advertised herein, nor do they express any 

opinion in regard to the legality of the use of any product advertised 

herein in connection with the practice of massage therapy.

Spring/Summer 2013 - AMTA California Chapter

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