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Post by AKSDave on Jun 10, 2009 7:37:08 GMT -5
On August 8, 2009 two American Karate Instructors will be honored at a banquet in Long Beach Ca.
Mr. Ernest Lieb, our Founder and First Chief Instructor,will be inducted into the Martial Arts Hall of Fame. He will recognized for his many contributions to the growth of karate in America. It is my understanding that he will be the first recipient in his category honored posthumously.
Mr. Robert Essenberg, AKS 3rd Dan, will be honored as an Instructor of the Year. Bob has earned his rank even though his is visually handicapped. He has also taught a number of karate seminars throughout Michigan to their blind children and adults.
Our congratulations to both of these gentlemen.
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Post by AKSDave on Aug 11, 2009 19:23:40 GMT -5
The American Karate System was well represented at the 10th Annual Martial Arts Masters Hall of Fame banquet in Long Beach. Ca. Attending were Mike Sullenger, AKS Chief Instructor, Fred Reinecke, Asst Chief Instructor, Dave Thomas, Asst Chief Instructor, Stephen Thurkettle, 6th Dan and Robert Essenberg, 3rd Dan.
It was an evening that recognized many of the best Martial Arts has to offer. There were a number of contemporary legends as well as outstanding Instructors of many styles in attendance.
Mr. Essenberg was awarded Instructor of the Year not only for his accomplishments as a visually impaired Black Belt; but for all the seminars and clinics he has set up and run for visually impaired children and adults throughout Michigan.
Mr. Lieb, our Founder and First Chief Instructor, was awarded the Platinum Life Achievement Award and was inducted into the 2009 Masters Hall of Fame. Mike Sullenger accepted the award in Mr. Lieb's behalf. Mr. Lieb was the first member of the Hall of Fame to be inducted posthumously.
In addition to the litany of martial arts masters, we were fortunate to have the actor, Mr Bo Svensen sit at our table for the evening. He is a charming and brilliantly funny man. He was honored for his many years of study in Judo and Ju Jitsu.
We all had a terrific time and met a number of fellow practitioners. You can read more in the Sept. issue of the Punchline.
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