As posted on another forum...

Source Kenpojoe.com under the news section.

This is news item #1

January 2, 2007- New Bedford, MA:

In accordance with the wishes of Grand Master David German, founder of the T.A.I. (Transition Action Incorporated) martial arts system {Tai Karate, Tai Kung Fu, Tai Kenpo}, Mr. Rebelo has offically been promoted to the rank of Eigth Degree Black Belt in the art of Tai Kenpo. Originally, GM German wanted to promote Mr. Rebelo in 2004, however, He [Rebelo] did not feel at that time he was worthy of the honor, Mr German relented at that time and promoted him to 5th Degree Black Belt. Mr. German produced a second certificate and stated his wishes for Mr. Rebelo to honor his wishes in the future and stated "When the time comes you'll know what to do.". After Mr. German's untimely death last year, Mr. Rebelo sought out those TAI seniors for their opinion and they concured that GM German's wishes should be honored and the TAI system and Kenpo be perpectuated. It is in that spirit that Mr. Rebelo now accepts the rank his instructor gave to him. It is Mr. Rebelo's plan to promote the TAI system as a compliment to kenpoists who wish to enhance their training.


Salute,

Martin Seck



I stand corrected. However I feel that if you are going to represent Parker Kenpo, wear the proper rank. His Hachidan (8th Black) is in Tai Kenpo. Mr. Rebelo's video shows him demonstrating Parker Kenpo techniques. He is wearing a gi with Parker Kenpo Patches. Suffice it to say I think he was representing the Parker Kenpo System.

My question now is would that rank be worn in the presence of Mr. Planas, Tatum, Trejo, Pick, Hebler, Wedlake, Chapel and others? Heck when Mr. Rebelo taught at Mr. Tatums Camp in Maryland he was listed as a 5th Black. Hmmmmmm Why is that? Because he IS only a 5th Black in Parker Kenpo.

Sorry for the negativity here, but this is a pet peeve of mine. Too many times I have seen people claim rank higher than what they actually are and then try to justify it by saying "Well I hold this rank in such and such system, so because it is the highest rank I hold I wear that belt" That's BS! When representing a particular art wear the proper rank you have been awarded, not one from another system or style. It is misleading and a lie.

I take nothing away from Mr. Rebelo's efforts and insight he has tried to provide here. However, if he was conducting a Tai Kenpo Seminar then he should have changed belts before filming as to not misrepresent himself and the Art. Like his tag line states "The truth,no matter who it hurts, is still the truth!"