On the evening of June 19, 2010 two American Karate System black belts, E. Jude Gore and Rand (Skip) Palmer, were honored by the MASTERS HALL OF FAME / ACADEMY OF MASTERS at their annual banquet in Anaheim, California. Ambassador Anthony Zimkowski nominated E. Jude Gore (left) and Rand Palmer for "INSTRUCTORS OF THE YEAR."

Jude and Rand were accompanied by their wives Sandy and Deb, respectively, and were humbled to receive their awards along with many outstanding and deserving martial artists from across the country.

On the evening of August 8, 2009 in Long Beach, California at the Annual Academy of Masters, Masters Hall of Fame Banquet, Mr. Robert Essenberg, AKS 3rd Dan, was awarded Instructor of the Year for 2009. He also received a certificate and an engraved glass globe in a crystal hand. Mr. Essenberg was accompanied by his instructor, Mr. David Thomas 8th Dan A.K.S.

Says Dave, "Mr. Essenberg has been in karate 12 years with an impressive resume of accomplishments, even though he is blind. He has been an inspiration to me personally as well as those he has trained with. Congratulations, Bob, on the recognition you most definitely deserve."

Bob Essenberg is a founding member of Opportunities for the Blind, which teaches vocational skills so members can be self-supporting. Besides karate, he has also coached blind athletes in judo, track and field, and gymnastics. Bob has volunteered over 2,000 hours with Michigan Special Olympics. His personal accomplishments, while remarkable, pale to his commitment to help others grow and achieve.