Manchester seminars

The 25th anniversary celebration of the founding of Steve White's studio in Manchester, NH was well-attended and tons of fun. The right photo, from left, shows Goju-ryu 10th degree Richie Bernard, Steve White, Francis Rene of New Orleans, myself and Don MacKay.

Hanshi Bernard was there to teach elments of traditional Japanese Goju with his first teacher, Kyoshi Ronnie Martin of Pennsylvania. Their time slot was chock-full of good information on fighting strategy. Steve White did an excellent seminar on kenpo takedowns that was followed by one of Olympic judo competitor Jimmy Pedro's black belts, the dynamic Ms. Chandler, covering ground work. Jim Peacock did a seminar on his new nunchaku program in a well-thought-out presentation. I wrapped up the day with teaching the Spear Set to the group, the first time ever since I learned it many years ago.
Mr. Rene thought a birthday couldn't happen without a present and Mr. White was given a ring with his school crest on it. The ring was done by our own Brad Congress of Bradley's Fine Jeweler's here in Ft. Myers.
   At a small gathering in Steve's home later that evening I was able to sit and talk with Mr. Martin, who was one of the best known tournament fighters in the US back in the 60s and 70s. We knew many of the same people and traded stories. It was great to have the opportunity to meet and talk with him. I caught up with Don MacKay as well. I met Don way back in the early 80s and he was instrumental in connecting Steve and myself.
   Congrats to MKS!