Press Releases

Recognizing New Black Belts and New Black Belt Ranks for:

Eric DelMedico-----Junior Rank Black Belt (1st Degree)
John Tsou-----1st Degree Black Belt
An-Ning Tsou-----1st Degree Black Belt
An-Li Tsou-----1st Degree Black Belt
John Ryan-----1st Degree Black Belt
Ian Ramsey-----1st Degree Black Belt
Richard Hillicoss-----1st Degree Black Belt
Amy Crossman-----1st Degree Black Belt
Christopher Ostrander-----1st Degree Black Belt
Mrs. Gisella Stalloch-----2nd Degree Black Belt
Mr. Joe Werezynski-----3rd Degree Black Belt

In the American Martial Arts Institute, a student who passes their test receives their new black belt or red tip, indicating their new level of black belt, immediately after the testing. The titled instructors, and everyone that was a part of their testing, including spectators, hold a small ceremony. This ceremony is a proud moment for those who have earned a promotion, but the special time of sharing their accomplishments with all the other black belts, friends and family takes place at the ceremonial breakfast. Everyone is in uniform and enjoys the time together in a friendly and light atmosphere, which is based on the success and achievement of those being honored. It is also a time of camaraderie and picture taking.

Richard Hillicoss receives his certificate from Grand Master Crandall

Twice a year black belt instructors and staff, and adult black belt and brown belt students, come from across the country to recognize the accomplishments of those who have tested for new black belt ranks during the past six months. This gathering of instructors, staff, and students has become a tradition of the American Martial Arts Institute. Those who have passed their black belt testing receive their certificate at this time. Traditions are not a static part of history; they are a living connection to a heritage that guides current generations as they grow toward the future. The American Martial Arts Institute is a school that prides itself on deep traditions and continued growth. Recently, eleven individuals were recognized for earning the rank of black belt or a new level of black belt. The American Martial Arts Institute maintains the old traditions and standards of these prestigious ranks. For one to achieve the rank of black belt, he or she must demonstrate personal growth and maturity along with the mental and physical skills of the art. Therefore, the American Martial Arts Institute holds to the old guidelines of five years or more of training, many of the individuals who tested have been training for eight years or more.

Amy Rossman receives her certificate from Grand Master Crandall

The breakfast began with a moment of silent remembrance of past instructors and students that are no longer present. Grand Master Crandall then took a moment to comment that it is always exciting to see new growth in the school, but the individuals who tested together in September provided a unique example of that growth. Seven of the students tested for 1st degree adult black belt status. They varied in age, occupation, body type, and gender. They came from different parts of the state and country. Each student has his or her own story of challenges and commitments, but all of these individuals demonstrated an enthusiasm for the art and the same katas, self-defense and other physical skills. They all maintained the same standards set by Grand Master Crandall and the school. One individual, Eric DelMedico tested for junior rank black belt. Another individual, Ian Ramsey, tested as a junior rank black belt for adult black belt status. Seven students tested for first degree black belt. One, Mrs. Gisella Stalloch, tested for second degree black belt, a rank confirming her commitment to the art and school, and Mr. Joe Werezynski tested for third degree black belt.

John Ryan receives his certificate from Grand Master Crandall

The years it takes for each individual to achieve this knowledge may vary, but to test and earn the rank of first degree black belt means that each individual has arrived at the same place. An equality of skill, technique, patience, concern, and respect for themselves and others that is shared by all who achieve the rank of black belt in the American Martial Arts Institute. Each of the new first degrees came from very different backgrounds in life, but both traveled the road to black belt.

There was great food and plenty of it. The semi-annual Black Belt Ceremonial Breakfast was held at the Club Monarch in Yorkville. In the main conference room everyone enjoyed a filling meal from the buffet. It was a very enjoyable way to begin the day. Following the breakfast, instructors and staff from the three locations, Utica, Albany, and Rochester, and from out of state, met for a staff meeting to discuss teaching the style and special programs to maintain the high standards of the American Martial Arts Institute. It was a memorable day, enjoyed by all.