|
 Biography
In 1984, Rochelle
was into running and weights. Her husband, who was already studying karate
encouraged her to try it. As nervous as she was, Rochelle tried it and just kept
going. In 1985 her life changed
abruptly as her marriage was over and there was no extra money for studying
karate. She stopped for awhile, then returned as she could to her Uechi-Ryu from
1986-1994, before returning for good in1995. Knowing that she had lots
to learn, she made the commitment to pursue her goal with added vigor and
dedication. To this day she has strong feelings of gratification for making that
decision. Returning to the dojo gave Rochelle more confidence, independence and
self-discipline, both at home with her daughters and at work, as a letter
carrier. Along with studying Uechi-Ryu she became interested in another martial
art - Seidokan Aikido, which blends well with Uechi-Ryu Karate.
Contact Me
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Personal Information
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Current occupation or profession:
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Letter carrier – USPS
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Marital status:
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Single
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Children & ages:
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4 daughters, 28, 24, 14, 13
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Hobbies, special interest or skills:
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Collecting teapots, reading, refinishing furniture and working out
(mind and body)
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| Age |
45 |
Karate Information
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Current rank:
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Yondan
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Total years of study:
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12
years
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Current style:
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Uechi
Ryu
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Current dojo:
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Okinawan
Karate
Academy
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Dojo location:
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Kalamazoo
,
MI
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Current instructor:
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Mr.
James Thompson
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Association affiliation:
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Independent
– Mr. James Thompson
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Karate and other martial trainings and years
attended:
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a.
Boston
Summer Camp 1984, had the opportunity to meet Master Uechi.
b.
Participated
in women’s self defense seminars.
c.
Assisted with Junior and Senior High school demonstrations.
d.
Assist
my Sensei with Aikido classes.
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Other martial arts or weapons studies:
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Seidokan
Aikido, eku, bo, sei, jo & tonfa
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Other martial degrees, certifications and
recognitions:
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Appreciation award for my loyalty and dedication to
the study of Uechi-Ryu Karate.
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Karate Promotions
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Rank
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Certificate Number
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Date of Issue
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Location of Promotion
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Ikkyu
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April 24, 1996
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Kalamazoo,
MI
Uechi Ryu Karate Association
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Shodan
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697
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November 24,
1996
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Kalamazoo,
MI
Okinawan Karate-Do Association
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Nidan
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426
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November 15,
1998
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Kalamazoo,
MI
Okinawan Karate-Do Association
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Sandan
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001
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November 19,
2000
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Kalamazoo,
MI
Uechiryu (Karatedo Kokusai Association)
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Yondan
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015
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November 16, 2003
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Kalamazoo, MI
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Educational Background
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College:
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Davenport
College
,
Kalamazoo
,
MI
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At what age did you begin to study karate?
26 years old
Why did you choose to study karate?
I was interested to see what Uechi Ryu was about.
Was there a reason why you chose to study Uechi Ryu?
My husband was studying Uechi Ryu at the time I began.
What does the tour to Okinawa mean to you?
To meet other women who are studying Uechi-ryu and to train. I feel that it’s going to be a lifetime opportunity.
How has martial arts study affected or changed your life?
Karate has given me more confidence and self-discipline.
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Women’s Friendship Tour association, inc. Marguerite
Hess, 3576
N.E.Skyline Drive,
Jensen Beach,
Florida
34957
Telephone: (772)
334- 7731
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