		New York Chapter
	*Chief Instructor 3 Black Belt Joe Pazzaglia**

A second degree Black Belt in Shotokan Karate, and third degree in American Kenpo Karate, Mr. Pazzaglia started training at the Johnstown Zen Do Kai in 1982. It was here he learned from 9th degree Michael Campos, and during this time he competed successfully in both fighting and forms throughout New York State. In 1989 Mr. Pazzaglia felt compelled to show his support for his country, and decided to join the United States Army. Shortly thereafter, Mr. Pazzaglia returned to the area and decided to continue his training with 5 degree Steve Holden of Sabi Katei Martial Arts. It was here in June of 2000 and after many years of intense training Mr. Pazzaglia acquired the rank of Shodan. Several years later Mr. Pazzagia continued his studies in Shotokan and American Kenpo, and in received his 2nd degree in Shotokan in 2003, and 3rd degree in American Kenpo under Grand Master Larry Tatum. Mr. Pazzaglia has had the honor and privilege of training with some of the most reputable and recognized martial artist found in the industry today. This includes several celebrity types such as Grand master Larry Tatum (The Head Hunter), Jeff Speakman (The Perfect Weapon & Deadly Outbreak), Bill “Superfoot” Wallace ( A Force of One), Benny “The Jet” Urdiquez ( Pearl Harbor & Spiderman), and Danny Inosanto known for being Bruce Lee’s protege. In 2004 Martial Arts & Me affiliated with the Larry Tatum Kenpo Karate organization. Grand Master Larry Tatum is one of the foremost authorities today in American Kenpo Karate and a direct student of Ed Parker.

In 1996 Mr. Pazzaglia attended a qualifier in Albany New York for a chance to compete on team U.S.A. in the 1997 Pan American games in Manzinillo Mexico. Mr. Pazzaglia received first place in his division, landing him a spot on team U.S.A.. Competing against 26 countries from around the world, Mr. Pazzaglia received an honorary Bronze medal for competing in the Black Belt Division even though he was only a Brown belt at the time. Mr. Pazzaglia is also very well known throughout the community for his extremely inspirational woman self defense and children programs. Mr. Pazzaglia is also a certified “Defensive Systems International Instructor”, allowing him to train and work with member of Law Enforcement, Security personal, and Correction Officers.

Mr. Pazzaglia has been working for the New York State Division for Youth (A Secure facility for teenagers) for nearly 14 years. He has also been certified in searches training, and has acted in the capacity as a “Crisis management and Physical and Mechanical Restraint” instructor for 8 years. Mr. Pazzaglia was directly responsible for providing the training to all personal at this facility. Once again feeling compelled to help others, In 1996 Mr. Pazzaglia created R.O.C. “Residents Opposed to Crime” a neighborhood watch organization, and worked directly with the Mayor and local authorities.

Presently, Mr. Pazzaglia owns and operates two schools located in Gloversville, New York and Amsterdam, New York. At the age of 37 Mr. Pazzaglia continues compete in tournaments and occupy his time by traveling to provide seminars locally and abroad. He continues to be a role model in the community and routinely works with children in our schools. His seminars for children “Be Your Own Hero” & Tiny Tigers “Zero Tolerance” seminars continue to grow in both popularity and in demand. These seminars are notorious for teaching children how to manage bullies and child predators. With nearly 25 years of Martial Arts training, his total commitment to helping others, and his dedication to the arts, Mr. Pazzaglia continues to be a true inspiration for everyone.

Mr. Pazzaglia also offers a very effective, inspirational and motivational Woman's Self-defense course. He has taught the well known "Be Your own Hero//Kids at Risk!" seminar in the Gloversville, Johnstown, and Mayfield school districts. This seminar has a strong "Don't do Drugs" theme and helps teach kids how to make the right decisions by creating good habits. Mr. Pazzaglia is also a certified Defensive Systems International Instructor, Certifying him to train Law enforcement, Correction Officers, State Police etc.
Mr. Pazzaglia has been an employee of the New York State Division for Youth Tryon Limited Secure Facility for 12 years and has also been the "Crisis Management and Physical Restraint Trainer" for nearly 8 years. Mr. Pazzaglia has also attended the "Defensive Systems International" A comprhensive training program certifying him to teach law enforcement, correction officers and security personel, skills and tactics necessary for on the job self preservation. He was also the founder of Johnstown Neighborhood Watch Organization in 1996. "R.O.C. Residents opposed to Crime". For Five years Mr. Pazzaglia worked hand in hand with the Mayor and Chief of Police helping to reduce crime in the community. He currently owns & operates a school located on 58 Main Street in Gloversville NY.

For More information you can visit our website at www.martialartsandme.com. or email us at martialartsnme@frontiernet.net.

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