A-KaTO Banquet – 2008

First, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to Mr. Yates, Mr. Proctor, Ysabel Merhout, and all of the others who make my trips to Texas possible. Each time I go, I learn so much and can’t wait until the next time I can go back.

Next, let’s talk about the people who passed their tests! As part of the banquet weekend, Mr. Yates held a high dan test and I was privileged to sit on the board for the examination. Four people tested for 2nd degree black belt, and two tested for third degree black belt. Everyone put in impressive performances, and everyone passed! Below you’ll find a picture of the six people who tested. They are flanked by Grand Master Toney in black on the left and Grand Master Yates in white on the right.

Testing group with Grand Masters

Here is a picture with Ysabel Merhout, who received her 2nd degree black belt this past weekend. You will see Grand Masters Toney and Yates from the above picture, along with Grand Master Michael Proctor. Ysabel has my special gratitude because she has hosted me each time I have visited. In addition to being an excellent martial artist, she has opened her home to me and I am forever grateful.

Ysabel with the Grand Masters

And below, I’m including some pictures of myself with Grand Masters Yates and Toney. For those of you who don’t know who Mr. Toney is, here is his bio from the A-KaTO web site: “Grandmaster Toney was another original black belt champions of Mr. Steen. He earned his first dan ranking in 1968 and currently holds a tenth dan. Also a member of the High-Dan board of the American Karate Black Belt Association (AKBBA) Mr. Toney regularly teaches across the country.”

Mr. Yates with Mr. Couch