Strange news came home today, from Amanda's karate class. She's been in the Ancient Arts Family Karate for about two years, and has acheived a rank of Brown Belt. We're quite proud of her, and you shouldn't cross her in a dark alley, if you know what I mean.
Anyway, it seems that the instructor, Don Isaak, has skipped town. He didn't shut the doors, but rather "sold" the business to two new instructors. One I don't know, a gentleman by the name of David Sipma, who is purported to be a Nidan or 2nd degree black belt. The other is Jodi Ronning, who started karate after Amanda did and has recently earned her black belt. They call themselves "Sensei" versus Don who called himself "Shihan".
Don left a letter. He did not make any personal appearance, did not call his students and this was a surprise to most everybody. His letter claimed "bad luck" and that his family wanted or needed to go back to Georgia and that he was going to pursue a nursing or nutrition career and not teach karate. He also claims that the contracts are all legally enforcable, which I'll check out before we decide (with Amanda's input) what to do.
Karate has been a good activity for her, from which much of the benefit comes from the instructors attitude and approach. It's so much more than the defensive/offensive tactics, forms and methods. It is Knowledge, Attitude, Respect, Ability, Technique and Effort (KARATE). And take that credo and apply it to school, home and inter-personal relations and the benefits can be substantial. I guess we'll see how it goes or perhaps find another instructor or maybe a new activity for her. Check back here later to hear the continuing saga!
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