Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals (ABMP) has again been named “Association of the Year” by the World Massage Festival held in Berea, Ky. Festival founder Mike Hinkle presented the 2010 award to ABMP President Les Sweeney at a ceremony June 19.

“ABMP continues to lead the profession, especially with customer service,” Hinkle said. “Their creation of www.massageprofessionals.com led the entire industry in trying to bring all facets and memberships together. And it works! Congratulations to ABMP for another great year.” Hinkle is the former owner of Pensacola Massage Center in Pensacola, Fla.

“Once again, we are honored to have received this recognition,” Sweeney said. “The credit really goes to our loyal members, who have supported us as we’ve grown.” The festival is in its fifth year and reaches out to massage therapists, educators, profession leaders, and the general public in supporting massage practice and education. The festival helps therapists network with each other, massage business suppliers, schools, and professional associations. For more information, call 336-957-8997 or visit www.worldmassagefestival.com.

Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals is a professional membership association serving the massage therapy profession by promoting ethical practice, fostering acceptance of the profession, and protecting the rights of legitimate massage and bodywork practitioners. Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Golden, Colo., ABMP is the largest massage membership association in the United States with more than 72,000 massage therapist members.