As we look forward to 2011 we can look back at 2010 and I think be very excited about the progress and innovation that has taken place here at MAMA.

We began an instructor’s class which has benefited all the Black Belts and red belts. What a pleasure to be involved with that class and enjoy the support that it has received by everyone.  I have really enjoyed that new challenge. Without the support of all the Black Belts and their help with instruction of the junior belts the program would suffer. Thank you.

We started the Kinder Kicks program in October of this year and it has been a great success, Many thanks to Mr. Colson, Miss Rose with advisement from Mrs. Rich , they have made that class a wonderful program.

In January Master Bishop will begin another chapter in his Martial Arts career by opening up another class here at the Link. He will begin a new Adaptive Fighting Class on Monday evenings.

Mr. and Mrs. Barrow continue to hold things together in our Tae Kwon Do classes, without them MAMA wouldn’t be where it is today.

Thanks to Mrs. Barrow our web site has grown and become what some have said to be one of the best around in dealing with Martial Arts. Thanks you Mrs. Barrow for all of that work.

I was honored to receive my Grandmaster, 8^th degree certification this past year. Master O’Hara and Master Bishop received their 6^th degree Black Belt certification. Mrs. Rich and Mr. Beasley their 3^rd degree and Mrs. Barrow her 2^nd degree.

New students continue to join our Martial Arts family and former familiar faces have come and joined us as well. The Link supports us in everything we do. Thanks to Mrs. Rich and Mr. Beasley, the Mountain branches of the Academy continue to do well.

We have promoted a number of students to Black Belt this past year, of that I am very proud. The work and dedication I see is humbling.

It is this kind of innovation and forward thinking that I am most proud of. The sharing of ideas and new programs is key to our success.

It is my hope that we continue to look forward and be creative in 2011. This is an exciting time in the Academy’s life and I am glad to be a part of it.

I would like to wish everyone Happy Holidays and lets all look forward to a Happy New Year with many more Black Belt promotions!

Yours in Martial Arts,

Grandmaster John W. Rankin