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Dynamic Chiropractic
October 9, 1995, Volume 13, Issue 21

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Davenport Hosts Chiropractic Centennial Celebration


DAVENPORT, Iowa – More than 5,500 members of the worldwide chiropractic family gathered in the profession's birthplace for the Chiropractic Centennial Foundation's (CCF) Grand Celebration, Sept. 13-16, 1995. It was a time to celebrate, remember and rekindle the spirit and power of chiropractic with an eye toward our second 100 years.

Participants came to hear from many of the most famous names in chiropractic philosophy, clinical practice, legal issues, practice management, history and research. The exceptional slate of speakers came away with an increased sense of pride in their profession and renewed enthusiasm for the future of chiropractic.

Attendees explored an exhibit hall filled with 175 vendor booths offering every kind of chiropractic product and service imaginable, and found fun and fellowship in stimulating exchanges with their peers. There was also an impressive and extensive array of continuing educational seminars.

"Innate is alive and well in Davenport!" exclaimed Louis Sportelli, DC, the current secretary for the World Federation of Chiropractic, who has regularly appeared in the national media spotlight on behalf of the profession. Dr. Sportelli rallied the audience at one of the philosophy sessions and declared, "This is a time for celebration. We can iron out our differences. But are we ready for the next century?" he asked the audience. They replied with a resounding, "Yes!"

"It's been awe-inspiring," enthused one attendee after three days of eye-opening workshops. Celebrants at the Grand Finale could choose from more than 70 workshops and seminars conducted by more than 100 authorities in the chiropractic profession, other healing arts and business professions.

In one of many philosophy sessions, Marilyn P. Smith, DC, a practicing chiropractor in San Diego, Calif., and CCF Board of Trustees member, wowed the crowd with her stories of treating medical students and physicians and educating them about chiropractic. "MDs have told me how fortunate chiropractic is to have a solid foundation, which is our philosophy," she said. "I've even had a Harvard Medical School graduate, who is a patient, say to me that he is jealous because he hears patients leaving my office saying, 'thank you,' because they were already feeling much better."  Aside from her busy practice, Dr. Smith teaches a class at the University of California's School of Medicine in San Diego.

Dr. Smith told another anecdote regarding her success in educating the medical profession about chiropractic: "One cardiologist who is also a patient told me that chiropractic is 'the best kept secret.' She's now regularly referring patients to me."

"People want chiropractic," she added.  "Don't be afraid to speak up, and do not give up your passions. The key to acceptance and understanding is education."

Tremendous International Presence

The Grand Celebration was a world-class event, with chiropractors from Europe, Greece, Africa, Iran, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan among those taking part in the festivities. "Being here has given me more excitement about being a chiropractor, and I'll be able to bring that enthusiasm back to the students I teach at Anglo-European College of Chiropractic in Bournemouth," said Ida Norgaard, DC, of Bournemouth, England. "Here the big lecturers fire you up. You don't see that so much in England."

Entertainment Highlights

On Thurs., Sept. 14, Palmer College of Chiropractic and Palmer College of Chiropractic West sponsored a memorable "Evening with Ray Charles" for all attendees. The seemingly ageless entertainer, backed by his orchestra, showed once again why his distinctive style and soul have made him a legend in his lifetime. There was also a special salute to the Palmer family.

Centennial celebrants became a focus group as they previewed the CCF's hour-long chiropractic documentary, "From Simple Beginnings," hosted by Jack Perkins. The documentary is in the final editing stages and will be aired on national television.

DCs, students and exhibitors showed their commitment by donating $377,000 toward the airing of the chiropractic documentary. The National Chiropractic Mutual Insurance Company donated over $32,000 to pay for the final editing. These resources, combined with the donations from the Washington, D.C. celebration attendees and chiropractors around the world, have made the documentary a reality.

Centennial planners were extremely pleased with the turnout and the professional camaraderie evident at the Grand Finale. "The enrichment and excellence found in the art, philosophy and science of chiropractic has been apparent throughout the centennial year, and especially during this wonderful Grand Finale in chiropractic's birthplace," said CCF President William Holmberg, DC. Dr. Holmberg said chiropractic's future "has never looked so bright." He added: "Our first 100 years were a journey to acceptance, and in our second century we will assert our rightful place in the forefront of the healing arts."

The CCF's Davenport Grand Celebration concluded with a huge gala at Davenport's LeClaire Park on the banks of the Mississippi River. Featured were dinner, cocktails, entertainment headlined by actor Alan Thicke, dancing, and a spectacular fireworks display over the old Mississippi, which like chiropractic, continues on its vernerable way.

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Dynamic Chiropractic
October 9, 1995, Volume 13, Issue 21

Printer Friendly Version
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