Dr. Milton Jacobson, aka “Super Zedha” just turned 90 years old on Christmas
Day! Happy Birthday Dr. J.!
Milt Jacobson, the 3rd of currently 63 KIA Black Belts, began his Karate
Institute of America journey at age 54. He earned his first dan Black Belt
ranking at age 60! And he’s still going strong at age 90, thirty years later.
Milt is quite an inspiration, and he certainly leads by example. So for any of
you who think you’re too old to start your martial arts studies, think again!
Martial Arts are more than life. This week we reveal the Passages & Principles
taught at the Karate Institute of America and in the Kiado-Ryu system of
martial arts. Each in its own way gives substance to our students in multiple
ways. They are as much a part of the KIA way of life as the martial skills
they support.
Having fun during their all-too-brief visit to California, the three Griffins
show off their impressive high kick skills. From right to left are “Scholar,”
“Badger” and “Gunner.” Obviously Scholar is setting the bar for her younger
siblings. We’ll certainly miss these wonderful young people. They are quite
talented, eager to learn, smart, respectful, dedicated and courageous—just
like their other family members, especially aunt Anna “Wildcat” and uncle
James “Psycho.” It was an honor to have them attend classes during their visit
and we hope we will be able to work with them again in the future.
Anna “Wildcat” Griffin practices her knife-edge kicks during her recent visit
to Southern California. Anna began her Karate Institute of America studies at
age eleven. She became the 55th Black Belt of the Kiado-Ryu in 1998. After
traveling abroad to Europe, she received her Masters Degree in German and
served in the U.S. Army in a combat division. Humble by nature, Wildcat is one
tough soldier and martial artist. She is a true hero. We are extremely proud
of her and grateful for her military service.
What a great surprise visit from the family Griffin—well, some of them!
Flanked by James “Psycho” Griffin< (KIA Black Belt #60) and Anna “Wildcat”
Griffin (KIA Black Belt #55) are family members “Badger” (glasses and purple
top), “Gunner” (blue shirt looking tough) and Scholar (glasses, center).
During their month-long visit, the kids have been taking karate lessons. Of
course “Psycho” and “Wildcat” were a great help. And what fun! These kids are
talented! How could they not be with two extraordinary Black Belts in the
family!
It is with deep and profound sorrow that I announce to you that our dear
friend and martial arts brother, Bob “Trucker” MacFarlane, has passed on.
As a final update to our remembrance, we would like to share another
condolence we received. Following this week, we will post a page honoring
Trucker.
Bob,
Thank you for your guidance and encouragement you gave me as I was climbing
the ranks to Black Belt at the KIA.
