Dr. Marge Templeton of Tri-State ATA Martial Arts Academy recently spoke to the Florence Rotary Club. Dr. Templeton, a longtime educator in the Southgate and Ft. Thomas School Districts, began a new career in 1986 when she founded the Tri-State Academy. Master Templeton is a 6th degree black belt certified instructor and has been active in martial arts since 1974.
The American Taekwondo Association (ATA) is the largest martial arts organization in the world. Taekwondo is an ancient martial art that focuses on physical and mental discipline, physical fitness and self-defense. The academy takes students from ages 3 on up, and according to Dr. Templeton, “You’re never too old to start!”
Dr. Templeton spoke about a new program designed to help students with autism through martial arts instruction. She shared a staggering statistic: one in 110 children will be diagnosed as autistic. The definition of autism is a developmental brain disorder that impacts the communication skills and social abilities of affected individuals.
This new program was developed at the urging of an autistic Tri-State student, who asked, “Do you think I could join the leadership program and help kids like me?” Tri-State ATA has partnered with Autism 4 Families, a resource organization, to offer classes for autistic individuals who would benefit from personalized attention and structured training. Dr. Templeton shared a video showing the students participating in classes, and spoke of their pride in accomplishing a new skill.
On February 25, 2012, Tri-State ATA Martial Arts Academy and Karate for Kids will host a Winter Tournament at the Holiday Inn Cincinnati Airport in Erlanger, KY. Over 500 competitors will compete for trophies and awards. This is Tri-State’s major fundraiser, and proceeds support the academy’s programs and instructor training certification. Learn more at www.tristateata.com.
The Florence Rotary Club is a member of Rotary International, a service organization dedicated to bringing together business and professional leaders to provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world.
The Florence Rotary Club meets most Mondays at noon at the Airport Hilton Hotel in Florence. For more information about the Club, contact Pat Moynahan, President, at amoynahan@insightbb.com or 859-802-0242, or visit the club’s website at www.florencerotary.com.