As I've heard before, we in the martial arts stand on the shoulders of giants. Most of these giants have passed on, but for me, many are still around. No list could ever be complete, but you've got to start somewhere.  I owe much to the following people:

To Hanshi Steven Roensch - For starting a gangly fourteen year old boy on the path; for taking me to my first tournament (on the day after my first keg party, what a great weekend!); and proving you could still be cool at age 30, 40, 50....

To Kyoshi Donna Judge - For continuing that same boy on the path; for being a leader both then and now; and an inspiration to both myself and to those that inspire me.

To Hanshi Robert Bowles - For being a thoughtful and conscientious caretaker to one of the finest martial arts in the world.

To Hanshi Ridgely Abele - A man who commands respect, and continues to earn it; for hosting one of the finest events of any kind that has led me to epiphany after epiphany; and for being an outstanding example and demonstrating what is possible.

To Tashi Troy J. Price - For your inspired search for knowledge and your even more inspired desire to share your discoveries.

To Sensei Mark Baker - For your openhearted hospitality and humility in a martial artist who has no business being humble.

To Sensei Malele Nzeza - Who has a greater knack for exposing my weaknesses and helping me eliminate them than anyone I've ever known; for both your direct and indirect contributions to these pages.

To Sensei Tom Harty - For your technical expertise, both on the floor and at the keyboard.

To my family, for allowing me to pursue my passions and to join in whenever possible.

To all those that assist in the making and maintaining of this site.

To all of those that serve to inspire and teach me, many know who you are and many do not.