Chamber's Energize Group Learns Self Defense Moves During Seminar

Master Joseph Stricker, Martial Arts Connection, Hosts Seminar

January 30, 2011
By: Julie McCallum, Entertainment Editor

Recently The Bay Area Chamber's Energize Bay Area Young Professionals Network Group were treated with a free self defense seminar.

Class was led by Master Joseph Stricker, (Right) Owner and Head Instructor of Martial Arts Connection, who graciously offered his time to show Energize members basic self defense techniques at the Bay City Location. Stricker also has a Saginaw location at 6285 Bay Road and according to Stricker, they are looking to open a location in Flint as well.

Stricker has a 5th degree black belt in Shito-Ryu Karate; 4th degree black belt in Juts from Hom bu, Japan; a certified Sift in Wing Chin-Jung FY with the Hong Kong Athletic Association; certified Scrim instructor by Renee Lats of the Philippines.

Stricker has trained several law enforcement agencies throughout Michigan, currently holds self defense classes for Realtors, and is certified in several other different styles of self-defense.

Stricker says, "Martial Arts is my life, and I love teaching it and also self defense. It's a crazy world out there, you do what you have to do to defend yourself." "Don't ever think that it won't happen to you, be alert of your surroundings!"

Andrew Korney, Redeemed, Director of Business Development also instructed the class and has a year and a half experience working with Stricker.

Cathy Koebke, Director of Sales & Marketing at The Chamber said, "The Energize YPN group is thankful to have supportive businesses in the area like Martial Arts Connection to offer free seminars to our Energize members.

Koebke continued, "We encourage all young professionals to become a member to discover how they can serve the community and have a positive influence on the business environment in our area."

To become an Energize member, Call Cathy at The Bay Area Chamber 893-4567 Investment is only $30.00, and the membership is valid for 3 years.

Co-Owner Fred San Juan, who runs the Bay City location and has been taking Martial Arts since he was 7, they also offer Zumba, TurboKick and Piyo classes, instructed by Marcie Klida. Martial Arts classes are offered for all ages.

According to San Juan starting on Monday, January 31, 2010 we have an 8 week Body Challenge including prizes and a leader board.


Stricker and Jason Pockrandt from Dare Investigations


(Pictured Left) Magen Trask, Vice President of Bay Future, Inc. said, " I had an awesome night at Energize Self Defense 101 Seminar-Sponsored by Martial Arts Connection! I learned quite a few techniques, so watch out!"


(Above) Andrew Kornecky, Instructor, works with Barb Engelhardt, Farm Bureau Insurance


(Above) Fred San Juan, Co-Owner of Martial Arts Connection of Bay City demonstrates with Cathy Koebke, Director of Sales & Marketing at The Chamber


Martial Arts Connection of Bay City, LLC., is located 207 Third Street, Downtown Bay City (989-545-1121)

Did you know:

100 million Americans have been touched by a violent crime?

Two million will be victims this year

Every 22 seconds a violent crime happens

Martial Arts Connection can help you learn the steps of personal safety and how to get out of a potentially harmful situation if it arises.