Is a title that could be claimed by any worthwhile 1st gen senior in AK, of which there are several viable candidates. Unfortunately, the title implies successorship; some passing of the torch to one specific person. Some of the posts by attendees of a recent event use this term, and then drop "hint bombs" (perhaps cousins of "inoculation balloons" of marketing 101 fame) about unseen documents.

I look forward to the day when I can break bread with Mr. Pick, talk story about days gone by, and hear the perspectives of another one of kenpo's old timers; there are indeed few remaining who have spent as much time in the company of our founder, and I've already heard some great stories of Mr. Picks actions on kenpo's behalf. I look forward to the day when I can see for myself the character traits of the man who has earned the respect of so many worthy men, including messieurs Brown & Buonfiglio, both folks for whom I have a great deal of respect, and who regularly comport themselves with dignity; they say you can tell a leader by those who follow in his footsteps. I also look forward to the day that inferences about successorship are left out of references to Mr. Pick and his association activities...considering the history, it seems to stand out as a challenge to the rest of the kenpo community to speak up in protest, or be complicit through their silence. An uncomfortable and politically unbeneficial position to be placed in, either way.

American Kenpo had a 1st Grandmaster in Mr. Parker. He never named a successor in life, nor in his will...many will recall the absolute scrambling that occurred in the early 90's, as various claims emerged, got shot down, emerged in alternate forms, etc. No Philosophers Mantle was granted by him in life, nor did he authorize any to do so on his behalf. I look forward to the day when the first and last founder of American Kenpo can rest, knowing that the legacy he worked so hard to spread is honored and kept as a flame in the hearts of ALL to whom he was Mentor and Friend.

Happy Birthday Mr. Pick, and congratulations to all on your well-earned promotions. Until we meet as cousins in spirit and art...

Best Regards,

Dave Crouch,
Continuing Student of Ed Parker's Kenpo

and then it will probably get twice as bad.

I noticed all the references as well, but I think its like beating a dead horse at this point.
American Kenpo will never ever be united under one flag again at any point in the future.
The branches are too divided at this point, and the lessons are too different as well.

I think it was you who once wrote a post that I liked that stated something along the lines of the basic kenpo curriculum being the equal to a basic college degree and the special branches that alot of the Seniors have branched off into as being higher specialty degrees.... I know I butchered your original post but I am sure you get the idea.

I think it is probably fine to call Mr. Pick a Second Grandmaster, because too his group he is that.
I think to some others Mr. Tatum is the Second Grandmaster, regardless of whether he would call himself that or not.
I think the list could be quite long as to who the Second Grandmaster is, and I don't think any can be proven or disproven beyond a reasonable doubt.

I think that all the different Seniors appear to have something different to offer on the curriculum and a unique take on what they teach, I think that different Kenpo schools now days are as different sometimes as comparing many of the kung fu styles to each other.

I think its just not worth fighting over semantics at this point, as the energy seems to me much better spent taking as much as possible from everyone out there and putting the best product period together. Until the day comes that I have met every Kenpo Master, and know everything they do and more, I will continue to listen and add it to my Library.

There seems to be so much hostility on this board at times no matter how "hidden" in the message it is. I hate to even chime in on it, but even us lowly kenpoists have to rant now and then.

And I should say up front I don't speak for Mr. Pick in any way shape or form. I trust Mr. Buonfiglio will make any corrections or clarifications.

First of all, Dave. Good post, very courteous and sincere. As for me, I've not been around kenpo long enough to comment on the kenpo community with any authority, but I can speak to some degree about Mr. Pick as a person. I've known him for some ten years now and like his other students am pulled by the magnitude of his character and by the circles of people that form this association. So, my (and I repeat "my") understanding of a few things surrounding this notion of second grandmastership.

1) The issue of unification of all kenpo under a single person, or a single banner. This is not only impossible but a terrible idea. No one would ever suggest this, least of all Mr. Pick.

2) Authorization. This is arguably the single most controversial topic in this whole discussion. Many would know more about this than I, but as I understand it when the SGM died, AK splintered like so many other systems when the founder passed (aikido, shotokan, etc.). I understand Mr. Pick left the IKKA sometime thereafter, intentionally. In congruence with the tenets of his spiritual faith, he waited seven years after the passing of his one and only teacher to surface up on his own (I wish I could reference something there, but nothing at this time). He would only accept promotion from someone he felt that was genuinely his senior and witnessed his growth under Ed Parker. And by "senior" I mean senior on the mats - a few 1st generation BBs outrank Mr. Pick in terms of having been kicked to 1st black before him, but as I understand it were his junior on the mats. From every account I've heard, he was junior on the mats to two people. One was Ed Parker, the other "big brother" Tino Tulelosenga (sp).

3) Intent. This is the interesting part. I can start by saying that his focus has continually been on the future, and on generations to come. I believe his action in '98 was to stick a stake in the sand, to establish a clear a definitive statement about what future kenpo as he knew (knows) it would hold. He literally proclaimed the title, he didn't accept it from a committee. To put it bluntly, he threw down the gauntlet and took it. Now, despite his sincerity and spiritual growth over his life, particularly in the ten to fifteen years, this action was inarguably bold, but at the same time it was irrefutably resolute. Here's the rub: not one, not a single senior in kenpo has stood up to challenge his lineage or authority on the mats.

So, this isn't puffery I'm talking here (he's a quiet and humble person, anybody who's met him will attest to this), but the act was a simple proclamation of who's the alpha, with clear lineage straight from Ed Parker, beginning to end. Bold yes. But, it is what it is. Again, there's no chest beating here, just a step up, a slap on the rock, and nothing but the sound of the crashing waves for miles. There's been himming and hawing, slews of banter in which he has absolutely no interest, but nothing but silence in so far as a genunine eyeball to eyeball protest, sincere or otherwise. Perhaps the proclamation wasn't loud enough, people didn't hear it, or chose not to. Doesn't matter really, because I don't think it was a proclamation unto the world so much it was unto himself and to those that sought (and still seek) to forge a future of kenpo with him. If its any surprise, he probably didn't lose sleep over public opinion in the matter, probably still doesn't. His prime concern in kenpo has always been kenpo.

4) The future. I believe this is what its all about for him. As I mentioned, his focus in kenpo is on the future of kenpo, and the perpetuation of humanity and all its positive attributes through the martial path. While it would take knowing him personnally, understand that this is not him standing alone for his name. In fact, you will not find his name anywhere on the association - there is no mikepick.com, no mike pick kenpo karate, no MPKKA. I say this with absolutely no disrespect towards any seniors insinuated herein, but only to illustrate the fact that he genuinely wants his own personality banned from all things to do with the association and its future. Mr. Pick occupies a position within the UKF called the "senior teaching black belt". That's it, that's all - no GM, Sifu, sibok, sensei, shihan, or even master. Along with the senior teaching black belt in the association, the UKF is composed of two councils as a balance of power. The councils handle all things from ethics to administration, and provide counsel on all things related to the system and its perpetuation. All is fully documented and formally established. The thought here is that the UKF is to live beyond him, as is kenpo. He once told me he'd "learned many things from Ed Parker - some things to do in life, some things no to do in life". I am conjecturing that formalization of lineage, strategy, and direction is one of them. The point I'm trying to make here is that his positioning as a 2nd GM is not for his name or to create some legacy. It is a position of nameless leadership that, for reasons that aren't mine to express accurately, he felt obligated to fill, regardless of whatever clamor ensued from it.

5) Authority. At the 50th year celebration last week, Marcus read aloud a letter given to Mr. Pick from the Parker family. I believe the author was Mr. Parker's nephew and Mr. Parker's older brother Skip (someone may correct me on that). The letter made a very good point about lineage. In so far as the legend and bloodline of Ed Parker, it passes, in true polynesian tradition, to the son, Ed Parker Junior. The letter is not for public display simply because its publication would serve no purpose.

EPJ has mentioned this notion of lineage himself, and no one can or will refute that. The Parker letter was specific to say that it was in their opinion that Mr. Pick is the authority in so far as leadership through humility, and more specifically, as a combat proven authority in the system of American Kenpo, and as the strongest guiding force in ushering kenpo - undiluted kenpo - into the future based on his personal development of it and stemming from 32 years with its founder. This was a very clear distinction, an important one. Earlier this year when EPJ was asked by the row of FMA, Lua, Hawaiian Kenpo, and whatever other grandmasters in attendance "who's the one, Edmund? Who's the bull?", he answered Mike Pick. I'm speculating here, but I don't think for one second they thought Mr. Pick was the successor to the man Ed Parker, but as clarified by EPJ and so many others over the years, he was the "bull", the alpha, the top dog. Its a distinction that probably runs heavier in more family and lineage-emphasizing cultures than what many Americans are used to. Just a point to consider, and to put in context with this whole discussion.

Long winded, just trying to organize my own thoughts on the matter. At the end of the day, Mike Pick is a blacksmith, father, son, and kenpo teacher living up in the mountains of Colorado. His kenpo saves lives, period. His path is clear, his kenpo brutal, his eyes sharp, and his demeanor tempered by uncommon humility and compassion for his fellow man. He has perhaps 30 - 35 years remaining on this planet, and if I know him he will go out swinging a hammer or holding his wife's hand, surrounded by friends and family that he hopes splash ten times as loud as he did, kenpo and otherwise.

Cheers,

Steven Brown
UKF

Steven,

One very fine job on this post. I can understand where everyone looks at 2nd Grandmaster as successorship. That is a controversy that will never be put to rest. I was going to post a lengthy post explaining many things about this, but you beat me and did a better job than I would have.

Those who truly know Grandmaster Michael Robert Pick, know his role in Kenpo. His role is 2nd Grandmaster as he has stepped up to the plate for his people in honor of Senior Grandmaster Edmund Kealoha Parker. He does everything for others, not himself. Those who have made claims of successorship only have agendas to feed their own ego. Mr. Pick has accepted the "role" not the "title." Many worship titles like they actually emulate their being. A title is just a title. A role needs to be taken seriously. Mr. Pick honors his role by leading by example and backing up the Parker legacy due to his loyalty to Mr. Parker. He is one of a handful that I have found that are in Kenpo to pass the torch to other generations rather than hang it up in their bedroom as a personal acheivement award.

The times I have worked with Mr. Pick (only twice so far) I never ever heard any self-proclaimed fantasies. I have seen documented proof of who he is (letters from Mr. Parker and many other things). I have also felt proof of his true authority (lol). I know he is the real deal because I have traveled to work with him unlike those who make false comments on a keyboard. You don't know the truth until you meet Mr. Pick and work with him on the mat.

I have to parallel what Mr. Brown said about Mr. Pick's humility. He has kept to himself all these years. He has never tried to enhance his ego with putting his name all over the place. Anyone claiming to be the successor would do what he/she can to get noticed. Mr. Pick just leads by example and many have followed his greatness.

Mr. Pick has even been leary about me writing an article about him for "Black Belt" magazine. What does that tell you? He deserves to be brought out and respected for who he is. Many people do not know a thing about this great man. I only hope that those people will get educated some day.

Yours,

Michael Miller, CKF
www.millersdojo.com

...

Ed Parker with out a doubt had many who were close as students and they all have worth in their offering to the community.
We all have "Choices" in life to Follow,train from,get Mentored by, and also the most obvious and that is accept Rank from as well.
As one of many who actually knew SGM Ed Parker and had a relationship with him since I was a young boy of 17 years old and now 45 years old, I have made my own "Choice" to follow a man who has "Lead by Example" the spirit of Ed Parker's teachings as I was introduced too.
Sure no one man is the "Man" as there will only ever be "One" and he is gone now. But a few of us have been search of something we lack or are in search of....and my opinion is GM Michael Robert Pick has filled that void for me. That is who I'm speaking of...it is Mr.Pick!
When a gathering such as the recent celebration of his 50 Years in Kenpo can bring many together to follow a man such as Michael Robert Pick, you have too look as to why and what brings people to any man for such a celebration.
Those who were their will tell most of you this, for someone who was supposed to be in the spot light that weekend how is it that he was doing all the serving of food,cleaning up the left overs, bringing drinks to children, and other invited guests. Above all saying in front of the entire audience..."Thank you all for being here, it is "I" who is Honored for your willing to come to this event". No ego, no agenda, not upset by anyone who could not come...but Honored by those that did.
Documentation, facts and proof from not only Ed Parker Sr. was privately shown to a few who were allowed to view some things that Michael Robert Pick has kept silent for many years so no waves were ruffled and no Politicking was caused.....but an "Alliance" of Kenpo people are coming together more and more as we move ahead in the Path we all call our own "Choice".
There has never been a time anyone can say he has boldly printed anything about being the so called new man of Kenpo and only person
chosen to Lead the Kenpo Community as the successor.
Michael Robert Pick did say he has stepped up to the plate as a man of Leadership,Mentorship and to guide those who seek his wisdom and ability as taught to him by his teacher SGM Ed Parker.
In closing "Leaders" are Global and are many as we all choose whom we want to be taught by in our individual paths, so please take this as only as a voice from those who are proud to be under his wing not as a threat or as a point of discrediting others of their worth.
For the record a few of us have chosen Michael Robert Pick as our "Senior" in Kenpo guidance and focus.....for further opinion I suggest asking GM Dave Hebler,Master Rainer Schulte,Master Tony Cogliandro and to the extent of long term old timers like Joe Hyams there thoughts and opinions nothing more.
My list of having Kenpo Uncles,Aunts, and cousins are a list I'm proud to have and still consider this to be awesome family. My Kenpo Grandfather Dave Hebler is someone I love and will always be proud to say he was my roomie for a time I will always remember. Let's extend our hands and shake in friendship more often than ever....Now before it is to late!
TCB....Sean Kelley

"And by "senior" I mean senior on the mats - a few 1st generation BBs outrank Mr. Pick in terms of having been kicked to 1st black before him, but as I understand it were his junior on the mats."

I've read/heard this several times about several people AK and otherwise and it seems to mean something different depending on who is saying it. What exactly do you mean here?

Salute.

James Hawkins III, SI
Hawkins Kenpo Ju Jitsu
Baltimore, MD
http://www.arnis.org/certification/regional_representatives_hawkins.htm
http://youtube.com/profile_videos?user=kenpojujitsu3
http://www.myspace.com/kenpojames
410-948-1440

Thanks for the response, James. I'm going from what I've heard from others, not Mr. Pick. What I meant is he was the king of the mats when push came to shove. All rank and tenure aside, the alpha male. The only exceptions to this I've heard of were Ed Parker (obviously), Tino, and I believe Leonard Mau in the earlier years.

The statement of being the alpha is harsh and direct, yes, it sounds pompous and exaggerated, doesn't sit well with people's sensibilities. Note that does not mean that kenpoland was not filled with extremely talented martial artists and pugilists. It was then and it is now. But as far as I can tell his prowess is probably why EP selected him as his body guard, all loyalty aside, and, to put it bluntly, to conduct some of the business EP needn't do. The early years of kenpo (early sixties) were particularly interesting.

That's about as far as I can take it, I wasn't there, he was fifteen years into kenpo when I learned how to suck my thumb. I'd defer to Tom Bleecker or someone for unbiased specifics. I expected some strong reactions if I brought that up, so my apologies to anyone offended, its not really my type of post.

Thanks again,

Steven Brown
UKF

He was able to kick everyones ass so he was the top dog.

At least thats the impression I am getting from your post.

Not sure if thats what you are trying to get across or not though.

Your post read........
He was able to kick everyones ass so he was the top dog.

At least thats the impression I am getting from your post.

Not sure if thats what you are trying to get across or not though.
............................................................End of Post
I don't think Steve was implying anything other than clarity to what was the truth.But to be fair on this let's just ask ourselves this...why did he select Mike Pick rather than any other person of IKKA choice?
To be sure we are not disqualifying others who were skilled in their abilities was he or was he not known for what his reputation stood for?
According to a recent conversation it was said that there were only 3 people who were ever promoted by Ed Parker from White belt to 7th Degree Black belt....just a little trivia for those who like some?
Now the answer to being a Top Dog! He had a herd of Top Dogs in his circle of Black Belts over the years.
He also had some very close Black belts who were on top of his **it list as well and were axed just like the patch stands for. That is another topic not worth bringing up...so where is this all going other than a few personal feelings toward GM Michael Robert Pick! He is who he is and many are Honored to be his friend,Student,and proud of his accomplishments.
Many good people are in Kenpo and one lesson I learned was the future is in the hands of many good Torch Carriers who carry the Torch in the next Generations!!!!!
Keep that Flame burning Bright!
TCB...Sean Kelley

which you started by specifically announcing that Mr. Pick was, in matter of fact, Mr. Parkers chosen successor, that you swore off this site?

Funny how you should mention about my leaving and trust me I was out of here! But when that situation took place many emails came my way asking me not to give into the Politics or to those who are around telling false stories. Some post on this web site as a person of authority and are not in that position to make others think they are.I post with an opinion of first hand knowledge or from an experience I encountered, not always popular but some still have never left their own nest to see the other Birds out there. Where as I have and have gotten to know more than the majority on this post...not being egotistical but a facts a fact. I can list many who have been my teachers to my friends ,to the guests that have come to my Florida Camps over the 14 years of it's existance.I know what the people like to learn and whom they have enjoyed the most in training with.Not only have I been there to listen but have experienced the teaching skills of many out there. Some are awesome and a few will never be invited back again..they just out right suck as instructors and forgot students are customers and deserve mutual respect and knowledge paid for other wise "You just don't get paid" because you did not bring anything to the table...Sorry!
We do have man Computer Black belts out there who hide behind a screen and have lots to say and I'm sure some is valid....but there is also a lot of Bull and some things not worth being silent about.
I was never voted anywhere as the most popular outspoken person but for those who know me ..know I'm fair and honest with my feelings toward Kenpo and promoting the art for all to be proud of.
For the record it is necessary to say many forget that there are more Seniors out there who do monitor Forums like this and see who is saying what. Some are not the type to speak out because of their position but it does get filtered down to someone like me to answer from to time to time...that's my job as a student and carrier of the Kenpo Flame as taught to me by Ed Parker as well as my immediate mentors as well.
Sorry for the "Sequal to Sean Kelley" but I'm not alone on voicing my opinion or to remind a few about certain etiquette that was shared to me and I strongly believe in as we all should have at times.
For the most part this forum is a great place to share notes,make friends and to educate those who don't know certain Principles and Concepts. It also has allowed a broader ability to network and to extend our hands out to those needing mentorship or just a friendly smile....TCB
Sean Kelley

James Hawkins III, SI
Hawkins Kenpo Ju Jitsu
Baltimore, MD
http://www.arnis.org/certification/regional_representatives_hawkins.htm
http://youtube.com/profile_videos?user=kenpojujitsu3
http://www.myspace.com/kenpojames
410-948-1440

I have to preface my statements by saying that I appreciate all of the kind words that people inside and out of the UKF have to say about Mr. Pick. I have only met him once and I didn't find him rude, crude, or in any way a bad person. Much as Dr. Dave said, I really would like to sit down and break bread with the man. I'm sure there is a lot to learn.
What I don't agree with is mis-information or hints of secrets while at the same time claiming no agenda. This may not be the direct result of Mr. Pick, but his students reflect upon him.

I've met Mr. Brown and really enjoyed our discussion. Cool guy. I have yet to meet Mr. Kelley, but I do believe he is an honest person who means well.

So here goes as I launch into a few statements by Mr. Kelly and Mr. Brown:

SK: "Documentation, facts and proof from not only Ed Parker Sr. was privately shown to a few who were allowed to view some things that Michael Robert Pick has kept silent for many years so no waves were ruffled and no Politicking was caused.....but an "Alliance" of Kenpo people are coming together more and more as we move ahead in the Path we all call our own "Choice"."
Whether intended or not, something political appears from the UKF camp every six months. If there is no desire to be political then release the secret information and let the world judge for itself. You may piss some people off and ruffle feathers, but what's new? What I can't stand is the numerous allegations that surface from the UKF affiliates about various black belts without any clear evidence. The last in my memory was the attack on Bob Rose with absolutely ZERO evidence. If you're going to step up then by all means step the *&^* up! Don't half ass it. We can take it.

SK: "There has never been a time anyone can say he has boldly printed anything about being the so called new man of Kenpo and only person
chosen to Lead the Kenpo Community as the successor."

So there was never a "Successor" poster? Seems to me that was a pretty bold statement.


SB: "To put it bluntly, he threw down the gauntlet and took it. Now, despite his sincerity and spiritual growth over his life, particularly in the ten to fifteen years, this action was inarguably bold, but at the same time it was irrefutably resolute. Here's the rub: not one, not a single senior in kenpo has stood up to challenge his lineage or authority on the mats."

I'm not sure I get this statement. "... challenge his lineage or authority on the mats"
What does that mean? Was someone supposed to go all wild west and call him out at high noon to beat the crap out of him? Because no one made a physical challenge that leaves him to be the alpha male? Here's my take... none of the seniors cared enough to bother. Where you hear statements of support for Mike Pick from your kenpo circles and see silence as irrefutable proof of his "alphaness" I hear the exact opposite from others outside the UKF circles. Seniors who remain anonymous and for whatever reason don't speak up. I can't pretend to understand why, but I imagine it's for the reasons I stated earlier. No one has "evidence". They have words and memories, which seems to be enough for them, but no written proof. Innocent until PROVEN guilty. No evidence. No argument.

SK: "Let's extend our hands and shake in friendship more often than ever....Now before it is to late!"

This is something we can agree on. One day I hope to have a long day spent with Mike Pick, learning and sharing.

Good afternoon, Mr. Bode,

The notion of agenda on the part of students is a important one, one that requires careful attention as we go out and post such things. Very good point, I certainly hope I never come across that way. My original post was to address Mr. Crouch's question based on whatever information I had at my disposal.

"Whether intended or not, something political appears from the UKF camp every six months."

This is certainly something interesting, good point for bringing it up. This whole argument thing comes up from time to time, but you'll notice not from someone in our group. Inevitably, UKF visitors to the site like myself are inclined to post some kind of courteous response to questions asked after the initial land mine, even if from a very limited knowledge base - hence, my attempt of a response to Dave. When things takes a step into the political realm, I find myself backing out and flailing my colored belt, citing its out of my realm (what an asset to be another schlubb in the ranks, lemme tell ya), and defer to higher powers such as Marcus Buonfiglio if true representation of the UKF is to be had. I do my best to keep my representation to the technical plane only.

In my mind, its a dead issue. I agree that the silence of many seniors is that they pay it no heed. I'm inclined to follow the same path and get back to my neutral bow and Block Set and shaddup (another luxury of being a wee belt). Perhaps I never should've responded, but I've grown respect for Dave, you, and others I've met through kenpo, and at least felt some kind of response was in order. Mike Miller hit the nail on the head when he said Mr. Pick was trying to "fill a role" via leadership, integrity, humility, and continuous development of the AK system, and not make a claim to a title. It could be said that others are doing the same through their actions?

With that, I think I'm done. Discussion of Attacking Mace anyone?

Salute,

Steven Brown
UKF

"I certainly hope I never come across that way. My original post was to address Mr. Crouch's question based on whatever information I had at my disposal."

And you did. Very well I might add. You did not come across as having an agenda, but as being a vocal and devoted student. I can't fault you for that. I just hope you don't fall into any traps of mis-information and he said she said. You seem immune so far though.

"This whole argument thing comes up from time to time, but you'll notice not from someone in our group."

I have no problem with arguing or political statements as long as they are backed up with facts that are solid and provable. No conjecture. I applaud you for believing in your teacher. We all should, but we can't let belief cloud good judgment.

"I'm inclined to follow the same path and get back to my neutral bow and Block Set"

Here here!

"Mike Miller hit the nail on the head when he said Mr. Pick was trying to "fill a role" via leadership, integrity, humility, and continuous development of the AK system, and not make a claim to a title. It could be said that others are doing the same through their actions?"

Yep. Point is this... Mike Picks work should speak for him. It's like the kid in school that everyone hates because he's fast, smart, and he lets you know it. No one likes a braggart. I think this same impression has been left by students, accidentally or otherwise, of Mike Pick. From attacks on other Black belts to claims of Succession these statements just wont sit well. Making no statements at all and just working within and for the kenpo world would take someone a lot further than proclamations. Maybe Mike Pick most vocal students need to understand that. It's the work, not the words that speak volumes and garner support.

So about Attacking Mace?

Please forgive any tough talk or boldness from any angle coming from any of us. My guys in the CKF have been adopted by GM Michael Pick as a family add on.
We are not UKF members and we are not qualified to spaek as if we are but we are under the banner of GM Michael Robert Pick just like a few others who have done the same.
I will say he is a man of strong character and has mentored many of us on our Kenpo paths with sound focus.
The people who you hear speak of him are only sharing their feelings about him and how they are touched by his personality and want others to know what it was like.
There are many Kenpo Seniors who are equal in sharing there worth but we must not kid ourselves some are self centered,money driven,dis-honest, bullies,and have become the position there in by default not by any other means.
In any career we have what is called customer service and repeat business. I know of a few who will never be allowed back to do a seminar or area because of how they have treated people or by the way they have behaved in the company of others.
I do see a wave of interest of people inquiring about learning from GM Mike Pick and where is the next seminar he will be teaching at in many emails I have recieved.
My best advise is this, don't listen to me, Steve Brown,Rainer Schulte,James Hawkins, or the guy down the street.Instead go and take a class of his and then....ask yourself what you thought of his character,skill,delivery, and above all his energy that you were able to recieve while being present.
Kenpo is an art of many who share a piece of Ed Parker's seed...there is Frank Trejo,Larry Tatum,Dave Hebler,Jeff Speakman,Tony Cogliandro,Bob White,John Sepulveda,Hans Hesselmann,Rainer Schulte,Ed Parker jr,Rich Hale,and many more.....
But some did recieve a lesson or 2 that just might be worth the extra mile to just go find out on your own for!!!!!!!!
TCB...Sean Kelley
Carrier of the Torch
with pride!!!!

That's all I can say here.

CT

but that's just my opinion I could be wrong.
Dennis Miller

Nice post Mr. Dave... just goes to show you the nature of people.

As you stated..... Mr. Parker left no infra structure in place to follow his organization. As such, many so called "Seniors" or notable Ed Parker Students followed their own paths after his passing. Creating new organizations and taking on ranks that they felt were fitting to their desires. Well, I guess I must also add that many.... many NON SENIORS or virtual unknowns also took the same liberties and did the same. LOL I can list some that are now wearing 10ths that NEVER even met Ed Parker.

How this was done exactly was dependent upon each ones personal values and judgment. Each to his own. They are free to do as they please.

People are free to "claim" whatever they want and develop whatever story they feel fitting. If they find followers, awesome.

I personally have a great respect for all the Kenpoists that have studied with Ed Parker... even if only for a little while, but at the same time do not blindly follow anyone.

I personally choose to align myself with individuals that
teach true ideals and that I personally have talked with Mr. Parker about when alive and know 1st hand what he thought of each.

There was and will always be only one Senior Grand Master
of Ed Parker's American Kenpo.... and that is... the Founder and Master Mind of the System.... Edmund K. Parker!

As you are one of the more vocal seniors, glad to have you.

Hey Big Dennis....always good to know your still playing in the Kenpotalk/Kenponet arena and can voice some clarity to the new kids on the block.
Hey by the way saw the footage of you as a Brown belt in the DVD "The New Gladiators" was that when you were with Sifu Coots? Thought I saw a old patch on the Gi...stay in touch.
TCB..Sean Kelley

Dave,
I noticed at San Jose Kenpo they are talking about breaking boards not bread. LOL...(seemed funny to me anyway) <(8-)

Does GM Pick break boards?

Gary

I think I'd do both in moderation.

CT

but that's just my opinion I could be wrong.
Dennis Miller

"Does GM Mike Pick break boards?"

No, he breaks necks (lol)

Michael Miller, CKF